Max Verstappen continues to be admired by the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team — and now also by one of its youngest and most promising drivers. Kimi Antonelli has voiced his openness to the possible arrival of the reigning world champion at the Brackley-based team, a scenario that remains plausible as Mercedes continues to evaluate its driver lineup for the future.
It is no longer a secret that Mercedes has shown interest in signing Max Verstappen. Rumors have intensified in the Formula 1 paddock suggesting that the three-time world champion could be eyeing a move to Mercedes to potentially replace George Russell. Now, Kimi Antonelli has added his voice to the conversation, expressing a positive stance toward the idea of sharing the garage with the Dutch superstar.
If this scenario unfolds, Max Verstappen and Kimi Antonelli could become teammates at Mercedes in the 2026 Formula 1 season, preparing to compete side by side and challenge each other on equal terms under the same roof.
Kimi Antonelli, the young Italian rising star currently completing a solid and promising rookie season, did not avoid the question when asked about the possibility of racing alongside Max Verstappen. On the contrary, his calm and confident response left no room for doubt or hesitation: “It would be interesting.”
Mercedes looking ahead: possible scenarios and future team structure
As the Mercedes Formula 1 team enters a phase of transition and strategic decision-making, the idea of seeing Max Verstappen lining up on the grid wearing the colors of Mercedes is no longer considered pure fantasy.
Recent discussions between the Brackley-based team and Max Verstappen’s management have given rise to new scenarios, opening up the question of who between George Russell and Kimi Antonelli might step aside to make way for the Dutch champion — should he indeed choose to leave Red Bull Racing.
In an interview with Sky Sports F1, Kimi Antonelli maintained a composed and professional tone when addressing the matter.
“I’m happy with George Russell,” said the young Italian driver. “We have a good relationship and strong team balance. But if Max Verstappen were to arrive, I wouldn’t have a problem with that.”
This response reveals not only Kimi Antonelli’s level of maturity but also his willingness to accept challenges — key traits for any driver aiming to become a long-term contender in the world of Formula 1.
On the other hand, the potential arrival of Max Verstappen — a driver with multiple world titles and a dominant personality — would undoubtedly disrupt the current dynamics within the Mercedes team.
Some voices in the paddock, including that of former Formula 1 driver and Sky Sports pundit Martin Brundle, have called for caution, suggesting that a direct comparison with Verstappen could potentially hinder Kimi Antonelli’s development during these critical early years of his F1 career.
For the time being, however, nothing has been confirmed. The possibility of seeing a Max Verstappen–Kimi Antonelli driver pairing at Mercedes remains speculative — but it is certainly an exciting and high-potential idea, one that could reshape the future of Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team in the seasons to come.
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