At Monza, a teenage prospect will take George Russell’s place in Formula One.
Kimi Antonelli will pilot George Russell’s vehicle in Formula One this coming weekend at the Italian Grand Prix, according to Mercedes. Lewis Hamilton is most likely to be replaced by Antonelli in the upcoming season, and he will have a chance to shine at the legendary Monza circuit.
It was confirmed in a statement issued on Monday that Antonelli will make his Formula One debut this coming weekend, with George Russell being excluded. Mercedes also announced that Hamilton would skip a practice session in order to give Antonelli another opportunity to drive.
Antonelli responded to the announcement by saying: “It will be truly special to compete in my first Formula One race. Driving the W15 and sharing the track with so many incredible drivers excites me much. I’m very excited about it.
It’s highly likely that the Italian adolescent, who turned eighteen last week, will take over as Hamilton’s full-time replacement the following season. After winning the FRECA Championship the previous year, he was given special access to the Formula Two racing circuit and is currently competing there.
Antonelli has already signed with Mercedes to take Hamilton’s place at Mercedes next year, according to what Toto Wolff recently seemed to confirm. In an interview conducted prior to the Dutch Grand Prix, the Silver Arrows team principal revealed the outcome of the match with a slip of the tongue.
Wolff stated, “We will confirm who is in the second seat soon.” Additionally, I stated that we completely support the two drivers who are in the car.
“I want to make it work with George and Kimi, so I’m starting the season in 2025 with two drivers who will have every opportunity to perform. For that reason, I don’t want to talk about the 2026 driver lineup at that time.”
After Max Verstappen and Lance Stroll, Antonelli would be the third-youngest driver in Formula One history if he signs with Mercedes the following season. That record is presently held by Oliver Bearman, who replaced Carlos Sainz at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in March.
Max Verstappen has been publicly courted by Mercedes in recent months, but it seems unlikely that the Dutchman will be acquired. He has stated time and time again that he is content with his current situation and that he is committed to Red Bull through 2028.
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