P1racenews AI automatic summary:
How the teenage Mercedes F1 star slipped through Ferrari’s fingers
In an alternate universe, Kimi Antonelli, a Mercedes star, could have made it to F1 with Ferrari, but they made a major driver fumble recently.
Critics now suggest Ferrari should have signed Antonelli to their young driver academy, especially considering his success as a two-time race winner and current championship leader.
Previously, there were debates on whether Antonelli was promoted too early or if Williams would have been a better fit for him than Mercedes, owing to his struggles in the 2025 season.
Despite early concerns, Antonelli’s talent was evident from his successful karting and Formula Regional career, where he secured multiple titles.
Ferrari passed on the chance to sign the Italian karting sensation, citing he was ‘too small’ to be a serious contender, a decision that allowed Mercedes to swoop in and secure Antonelli for their junior team.
Now excelling in F1, the possibility of Antonelli returning to Ferrari and becoming a contender for the championship raises the question of whether the Scuderia can once again boast an Italian champion clad in red.
