P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Very highly-rated rookie straight into top team – Kimi Antonelli at Mercedes in 2025 feels a lot like Lewis Hamilton at McLaren in 2007. But Hamilton was much better prepared
Kimi Antonelli’s graduation to Formula 1 brings back memories of Lewis Hamilton’s debut in 2007 as the last rookie to join a top team. With buzz surrounding Antonelli as the next big talent, the immediate spotlight on him without the usual stint in a smaller team resembles Hamilton’s scenario with McLaren. Antonelli steps in as Hamilton’s successor, not only as a rookie in a top team but also replacing the most decorated driver in history. Although the situations seem comparable, there are significant differences in experience and maturity between Antonelli and Hamilton at their respective debuts. Hamilton’s journey from British Formula Renault to becoming an F1 champion after years of progression highlights the importance of development and readiness in achieving success at the highest level of motorsport.
