Mercedes has announced that Andrea Kimi Antonelli will replace Lewis Hamilton for the 2025 F1 season. The news was shared during the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, despite Antonelli's crash during his practice debut.
This decision comes after the team shifted focus away from pursuing Max Verstappen and opting not to consider experienced drivers like Carlos Sainz. Antonelli, who recently turned 18, will partner with George Russell as Hamilton transitions to Ferrari.
It's an amazing feeling to be announced as a Mercedes works driver alongside George for 2025. Reaching F1 is a dream I've had since I was a small boy... I feel ready for the opportunity.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli
Antonelli has been with Mercedes’ junior program for several years and has quickly moved up the ranks in single-seater racing. In 2022, he won both the Italian F4 and ADAC F4 championships, followed by two Formula Regional titles the next year.