P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Kimi Antonelli was the driver selected to replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes, with the team highlighting how the outgoing driver supported, and continues to, the new one.
Mercedes believes Lewis Hamilton’s strong support for Kimi Antonelli is completely consistent with his character, showing a new plan to help Antonelli adjust to his challenging rookie season. Antonelli, a rising Italian talent, replaced Hamilton at Mercedes after his remarkable run with the team, as Hamilton decided to move to Ferrari for 2025. Despite a promising start, including a podium finish in Canada, Antonelli’s performance has wavered alongside the Mercedes W16’s drop in competitiveness. Throughout this, Hamilton has been a vocal advocate for Antonelli, praising his efforts and potential in the sport. Even while facing his own struggles, Hamilton has continued to offer guidance and support to Antonelli, drawing from his own experiences as a rookie in a top team back in 2007. Hamilton’s unwavering support for Antonelli highlights his commitment to nurturing young talent in Formula 1, demonstrating his understanding of the challenges rookies face in a demanding environment.
