P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes’ young star Andrea Kimi Antonelli is the leading contender to replace Lewis Hamilton next season.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff acknowledges that the team got caught up in the hype surrounding junior driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli, likening him to an exceptional talent like Max Verstappen, potentially replacing Lewis Hamilton in 2024. Talks suggest Valtteri Bottas may transition to Williams for 2025, paving the way for Antonelli’s debut with Mercedes. Carlos Sainz is also a contender for 2025, leaving Mercedes with slim options. Wolff emphasizes the need to observe Antonelli’s F2 performance and not rush his progression to F1 due to mounting pressure on the young driver. Despite the anticipation, Wolff urges patience, highlighting George Russell’s success as a model for nurturing young talent in Formula 1.
