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Toto Wolff has highlighted that Mercedes’ “inconsistent” car is making it tougher for rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli to adapt, describing the challenges as part of his learning curve in F1.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has highlighted the challenges faced by rookie driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli in adapting to the “inconsistent” car, stating that it is part of his learning curve in Formula 1. Antonelli earned his seat at Mercedes for the 2025 season following Lewis Hamilton’s departure after a successful 12-year tenure with the team, during which he won six World Championships. Despite a strong start with a fourth-place finish in Melbourne and multiple sixth-place finishes, Antonelli encountered difficulties with a revised rear suspension at Imola and faced a tough European leg with a DNF at his home Grand Prix in Italy due to mechanical failure. Antonelli’s performance fluctuated throughout the season, including a podium in Canada followed by retirements and poor qualifying results in subsequent races. Wolff believes that Antonelli’s struggles are not solely attributed to the driver but also to the car’s inconsistencies, emphasizing that overcoming these challenges is essential in his development as a future champion. The team sees Antonelli’s rookie campaign as a learning experience for both the driver and the entire Mercedes crew, aiming to create an environment that maximizes his potential on the track and supports his growth within the team. Despite facing difficulties, Antonelli remains focused on improving his one-lap pace in qualifying, acknowledging the high grip levels and fine margins in pushing the car to its limits. As the season progresses, Antonelli aims to continue his development and close the gap to his teammate George Russell, with the hope of showcasing his full potential in the second half of the year.
