After several years, an Italian driver is returning to compete in the top category of motorsport. The last was Antonio Giovinazzi with Alfa Romeo, who left the grid back in 2021. But this year, in 2025, the Italian flag will once again wave in an F1 team—and what a team. Andrea Kimi Antonelli will race for Mercedes, the team that dominated much of the hybrid era.
His position will certainly not be easy. The young driver from Bologna was personally chosen by Toto Wolff to replace seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton. Not bad for an 18-year-old who only passed his driving test a few weeks ago.
The German team principal has immense faith in Kimi. No learning season with a smaller team like Williams—after just a few laps in an official F1 weekend, which ended with a heavy crash into the Parabolica barrier, he was officially announced as George Russell’s teammate.
Kimi Antonelli’s first public appearance in Mercedes colors came last night during the livery presentation event at the O2 Arena in London. In addition to unveiling the new car, which retains a similar color scheme to last year, the Italian driver made his first statements.
“It’s amazing to see that we both made it through the junior program and now we’re finally racing in the same team. George has shown how strong he is—his consistency last year was impressive. It’s great to have him by my side because I can definitely learn a lot from him.”
Before taking the stage, Kimi Antonelli also gave an interview to Sky, where he spoke about his expectations for 2025. “It still feels strange to be here with so many great drivers. I’ll go on track with the mentality of someone who wants to win, but at the same time, I’m realistic—there are some very strong opponents.” – the Italian pointed out.
“I’ll always attack, and I won’t back down. I’ve never been to a concert before, so it’s a strange feeling to be here at the O2. But I won’t be singing.” – the Mercedes driver concluded.
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