Andrea Kimi Antonelli’s Rise to Formula 1
The young Italian driver, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, is set to make his Formula 1 debut in 2025 with Mercedes. Antonelli, who has been training with the team, has been gaining experience by driving old cars, specifically the Mercedes W11 from 2020, while respecting the mileage required by the FIA.
According to Toto Wolff, the team’s leader, Antonelli has completed 9,000 kilometers in Formula 1 cars, equivalent to around 30 Grand Prix. Wolff also mentioned that the team is preparing Antonelli for 2026, with the new regulations in mind.
Antonelli’s Progress and Expectations
Antonelli’s performance in 2025 will be crucial in determining his future in Formula 1. Wolff, however, takes the pressure off, stating that if fans expect to see Antonelli on pole in Australia, win the race, and fight for the title, the risk is great, and it won’t happen.
He (Antonelli) has completed 9,000 kilometers in Formula 1 cars
Hamilton’s Legacy and the Pressure on Antonelli
Lewis Hamilton, the legendary Formula 1 driver, debuted directly in a top-team in 2007 with a podium at Albert Park, alongside Kimi Raikkonen and Fernando Alonso. This put immense pressure on Antonelli, who is set to follow in Hamilton’s footsteps.
Despite this, Antonelli remains calm and confident, stating that he’s not afraid of being judged and that Mercedes has a clear opinion about him.
I’m not afraid of being judged. I know that Mercedes has a clear opinion about me
Wolff also praised Antonelli, calling him a prodigy, but emphasized that it’s essential to wait and see how he performs this year.
