P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Kimi Antonelli’s future at Mercedes appears safe despite recent criticism amid his poor form.
Despite facing public criticism from Mercedes for his underwhelming performance at the Italian Grand Prix, Kimi Antonelli’s seat appears to be safe for next season with no immediate threat to his position. The 19-year-old driver has had a turbulent rookie season in F1, culminating in a messy race at Monza where he finished ninth after picking up a time penalty. While Mercedes boss Toto Wolff’s change of tone regarding Antonelli’s performance has raised questions about the Italian driver’s future with the team, he is expected to be retained alongside George Russell for the next season. Antonelli’s struggles have been attributed to a change in the Mercedes rear suspension that affected his confidence, but he will remain a Mercedes driver next year. Former driver Nico Rosberg expressed surprise at Wolff’s criticism of Antonelli, noting that the young driver is a generational talent facing more challenges than anticipated. Currently in eighth place in the drivers’ championship, Antonelli will need to settle down and regain his form as he continues his F1 journey.
