P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has revealed that he will be calling upon Valtteri Bottas to “coach” Andrea Kimi Antonelli through his rookie season with the team in F1.
Valtteri Bottas has returned to Mercedes as a reserve driver for the upcoming season after Sauber decided not to keep him on their team beyond 2024. Bottas will bring valuable experience to Mercedes, having won 10 races with them from 2017 to 2021. With Lewis Hamilton moving to Ferrari, Mercedes has promoted Antonelli to join George Russell for the upcoming season, focusing on the 2026 regulation changes. Team principal Wolff emphasized that Bottas will play a key role in coaching and guiding Antonelli in his debut season. Antonelli, entering his seventh season in F1, expressed his gratitude for the support and advice he has received from Bottas and Russell, aiming to succeed despite the challenges ahead. Overall, Antonelli is determined to make his mark and achieve success in his rookie F1 campaign with Mercedes.
