P1racenews AI automatic summary:
1997 Formula 1 World Champion turned pundit Jacques Villeneuve believes that Mercedes Team Principal is determined to make the Brackley-based Formula 1 outfit a closed shop to all-comers bar Andrea Kimi Antonelli. Ever since Lewis Hamilton revealed ahead of the 2024 season that he will depart Mercedes at the end of the year to join […]
Since Lewis Hamilton announced his departure from Mercedes to join Ferrari in 2024, speculation has been high on who will partner George Russell in 2025. Despite initial interest in Max Verstappen and Carlos Sainz, Toto Wolff is now focusing on promoting Mercedes Junior Antonelli from Formula 2 to F1. Villeneuve believes Wolff’s interest in Antonelli is driven by ego, but the youngster seems to be an integral part of Mercedes’ future plans. Antonelli, a rising star within Mercedes since 2019, has garnered attention for his rapid progress and potential debut with Williams. The FIA has relaxed super license rules, potentially paving the way for Antonelli’s entry into F1 before 2025.
