P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Andrea Kimi Antonelli will step up to a full-time F1 drive next year, partnering George Russell at Mercedes.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff emphasized the visibility of Kimi Antonelli’s rookie F1 season mistakes due to the team’s standing in the pecking order. It was announced that Antonelli will race alongside George Russell next year, marking a significant moment as both are Mercedes junior program graduates. Wolff acknowledged that Russell’s three-season wait at Williams was perhaps too long before joining Mercedes in 2022. Antonelli’s debut FP1 session at Monza ended shortly due to a crash, but he remains highly regarded. Mercedes’ investment in these young talents reflects the success of their junior program scouting, with Antonelli discovered at 11 years old. George’s comprehensive career success and Kimi’s promising potential demonstrate the team’s commitment to nurturing young talent.
