F1 | Mercedes shock: Antonelli heading to Williams or Alpine in 2026? Well-known driver could take his seat
Mercedes continues to delay plans for next year, leaving Kimi Antonelli on edge. Rumors are circulating that the Italian rookie could move away from the team, while his seat is already attracting interest from a well-known driver.
Kimi Antonelli cannot be considered relaxed in his first rookie season with Mercedes. It seems the team’s patience may be running thin, and Toto Wolff is reportedly preparing a “softer” 2026 path for the Italian. In particular, Antonelli could end up at Williams, or even Alpine.
Shocking rumors are stirring the Formula 1 paddock. According to Swiss newspaper Blick, Andrea Kimi Antonelli might not debut permanently with Mercedes in 2026. Born in 2006 and once touted as a potential “next Verstappen,” Kimi Antonelli has struggled more than expected in his first year in F1’s top category.
Especially during the European leg of the season, which concludes this weekend in Baku, Antonelli has suffered several DNFs and finishes outside the points, causing Mercedes to slip to third in the Constructors’ Championship. As a result, the German team is reportedly considering “parking” the driver for a season at Williams or Alpine, allowing him to gain valuable experience before handling the full pressure of a Mercedes seat.
If confirmed, this would be a surprising move, sharply reversing expectations from recent months, when Antonelli was seen as Lewis Hamilton’s natural successor. In Toto Wolff’s plan, the move would give the young Bolognese a chance to develop in a less demanding environment.
At the same time, Blick reports that Brackley is already exploring a potential replacement. If Kimi Antonelli moves to Williams, a swap could occur with Carlos Sainz, returning to a top team after his Ferrari stint. If the Alpine option is chosen, the Italian would likely replace Franco Colapinto.
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