Kimi Antonelli Confirmed As Hamilton's Mercedes Replacement For 2025

Mercedes have announced that 18-year-old Kimi Antonelli will replace Lewis Hamilton for the 2025 Formula 1 season. Antonelli, who debuted in practice at the Italian Grand Prix on Friday, will join George Russell on the grid next year with a one-year contract. Despite a crash early in the session at Monza, his initial appearance showed promise.

Antonelli will become the third youngest F1 driver ever when he competes in Australia next March at 18 years and 203 days old. Only Max Verstappen and Lance Stroll were younger at their first starts. Antonelli was previously linked with a move to Williams to replace Logan Sargeant for the rest of the 2024 season but will finish his Formula 2 campaign with Prema Racing.

"It is an amazing feeling to be announced as a Mercedes works driver alongside George for 2025," said Antonelli. "Reaching F1 is a dream I've had since I was a small boy; I want to thank the team for the support they've given me in my career so far and the faith they've shown in me. I am still learning a lot, but I feel ready for the opportunity. I will be focused on getting better and delivering the best possible results for the team."

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff expressed enthusiasm about the new line-up: "Our 2025 driver line-up combines experience, talent, youth and out-and-out raw speed. We are excited about what George and Kimi bring to the team both as individual drivers, but also as a partnership. Our new line-up is perfect to open the next chapter in our story."

Wolff also highlighted George Russell's qualities: "George has proved that he is one of the very best drivers in the world. He is not only fast, consistent, and determined, but has also developed into a strong leader." He added that Kimi has consistently demonstrated the talent and speed required to compete at the highest level.

"Kimi has impressed us in his F1 testing this year and we will be supporting him every step of the way," Wolff said. The team's confidence in their junior programme and home-grown talent is evident through this decision.

The announcement marks an exciting new chapter for Mercedes as they prepare for future seasons with a blend of youth and experience. The team's commitment to nurturing young talent while maintaining competitive performance remains strong.