P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes doesn’t want to "spin" Antonelli’s mind over F1 chance
The Mercedes F1 team is searching for a new teammate for George Russell in 2025. Team boss Toto Wolff has hinted that they may take a bold approach in their choice, potentially leaning towards their protege Antonelli instead of an experienced driver. Antonelli, a highly-rated Italian driver, has had impressive success in junior categories, winning multiple titles. Mercedes has moved him up to F2 in 2024 with the Prema team. While Antonelli has the potential to make it to F1, the main consideration for Mercedes is whether he can do it with them as his starting point. Wolff wants Antonelli to focus on F2 and not fuel any talk about him being a contender to replace Hamilton at this stage. The team is not rushing to make a decision, as many potential candidates have already signed contracts elsewhere.
