P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Nico Rosberg has had prior experience with the incoming Mercedes driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli.
Nico Rosberg believes Toto Wolff’s decision to sign Andrea Kimi Antonelli is bold, but he is excited about the Italian’s potential. Antonelli will be partnering George Russell in 2025, taking over Lewis Hamilton’s spot as he heads to Ferrari, and will be the first Mercedes rookie since 1954 at just 18 years old. Highly regarded by Wolff, Antonelli has been likened to ‘the new Verstappen’ for his rapid progression through the junior ranks since 2019 when he was karting. Rosberg, a former world champion, is confident that Antonelli will adapt quickly to Formula 1, despite being a rookie. He believes Mercedes will support Antonelli well through the inevitable mistakes he will make in his first season, and is eager to see how the young talent will navigate the challenges of F1. Rosberg stresses the importance of having a strong support system in place for new drivers, as the sport can be unforgiving and circumstances can change rapidly based on performance.
