Mercedes announces Kimi Antonelli for 2025

Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team has announced its driver lineup for the 2025 season, betting on a combination of experience and youth with the inclusion of young Italian driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli alongside George Russell. This announcement marks a new chapter in the team's history, which continues to rely on talent developed within its own junior program.

Kimi Antonelli: The new promise of Mercedes

Andrea Kimi Antonelli, 18, has earned his place in Formula 1 after an outstanding trajectory in the lower categories. Since joining Mercedes' junior program in 2019, Antonelli has shown steady progress, accumulating titles in karting and single-seaters, including Formula 4 and Formula Regional European. His move to Formula 2 in 2024 with the PREMA team cemented him as one of the most promising talents of his generation, achieving victories at iconic circuits such as Silverstone and Budapest.

Antonelli's rise to Formula 1 is not only a personal milestone but also a reflection of Mercedes' confidence in its young driver development program. "It's a dream come true," Antonelli said after the announcement. "Since I was a child, I always dreamed of reaching Formula 1, and to do so with Mercedes is an immense honor. I am grateful for all the support I have received so far, and I am ready to give my best in this new challenge."

A new chapter for Mercedes

The lineup of Antonelli and Russell for 2025 underscores Mercedes' long-term vision, which seeks to combine the freshness and speed of youth with experience and leadership. Toto Wolff, team principal, emphasized the importance of this combination to keep Mercedes at the forefront of Formula 1. "We have full confidence that this lineup will allow us to continue competing at the highest level," Wolff said. "George has proven to be one of the best drivers in the world, and Kimi has the potential to follow in his footsteps."

Markus Schäfer, non-executive chairman of Mercedes-Benz AG, added: "Kimi's arrival at our main team is a testament to the success of our junior program. We are eager to see him compete at the highest level and are confident he will do a great job alongside George."

The 2025 season won't be easy for Mercedes, which faces increasing competition in Formula 1. However, with Antonelli and Russell, the team has a solid and balanced lineup that could offer a significant advantage in the championship fight. Antonelli, as the third-youngest driver to debut in Formula 1, will need to adapt quickly to the category's demands, but with the support of Russell and the team, his future looks promising.

For his part, Russell will seek to further solidify his status as one of the top title contenders, leveraging his experience and the positive momentum he has built over the years. The team is confident that the synergy between both drivers will be key to overcoming the challenges ahead.