P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes is poised to announce Andrea Kimi Antonelli as Lewis Hamilton’s replacement at the Formula 1 team in 2025 at the Italian Grand Prix, according to a report. The German marque appeared to have locked down its driver line-up through 2025 last September when it publicised that Hamilton and George Russell had extended. However, Mercedes […]
Mercedes thought their driver lineup was set until 2025 with Hamilton and Russell, but Hamilton surprised them by signing with Ferrari for next season instead. Antonelli is the frontrunner to replace Hamilton, despite Toto Wolff’s reservations about rushing his career. He has shown promise in Formula 3 and Formula 2, winning races recently. Reports suggest that Antonelli has signed a deal with Mercedes starting in 2025, to be announced at Monza next month. He will join Russell, becoming Mercedes’ lead driver after Hamilton’s departure. Mercedes sees potential in Antonelli but acknowledges the risks of promoting a rookie driver amidst their return to championship contention.
