The Italian driver in the form of Kimi Antonelli has admitted that there is a realization that he is replacing Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes which is not only a privilege but a responsibility too. Lewis Hamilton decided at the start of the 2024 season that it was time to move on as he announced that he would leave Mercedes at the end of the season.
What did Kimi Antonelli say about replacing Lewis Hamilton?
The seven-time Formula 1 champion, Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes' partnership lasted for more than a decade as he made his move to Ferrari to win his 8th F1 title and become the best driver to have graced the sport. In a decision that Toto Wolff, the team principal for Mercedes claimed was made then and there was deciding to go with the young Italian driver.
The Mercedes have been grooming the 18-year-old as the next big thing in F1 after Max Verstappen. He was picked up during his karting days and since then he has made a name for himself. In 2023, he dominated the FRECA racing series that led Antonelli to skip Formula 3 and make a jump to Formula 2.
After an impressive run of form, Wolff decided and announced Antonelli as the replacement for the Brit. The young Antonelli will be only 18 when he makes his debut for the team at the 2025 Australian Grand Prix.
I’m the next Mercedes driver and I’m taking the seat of someone who made history in the sport, so it’s a big privilege. It’s a big responsibility, but I’ve got the right people around me, Antonelli answered when asked about replacing Hamilton.
There’s a lot more hype around, of course, heading into next season. Definitely, you feel a bit of responsibility because you know you’ve got Italy behind you. Everyone expects me to be successful, especially because I’ll be racing a Mercedes. But it’s also really exciting. I cannot wait for next year to get started and also I cannot wait for my home race at Imola. I would love to see so many Italians cheering, Antonelli added.
Kimi Antonelli's relationship with team principal Toto Wolff
Kimi Antonelli is one driver that Toto Wolff has kept his eyes on since his karting days which further paved his way to become part of the Mercedes academy. Toto Wolff has nothing but praise for the Italian and he reciprocates the same. Antonelli mentioned how supportive his new team principal has been of him.
We have a great relationship, not only professionally, but also outside of the track. He’s a great guy, really supportive during great moments but also during difficult moments. I’m super happy to be with him. He’s been giving me a lot of help, Antonelli concluded.
A strong season for Kimi Antonelli could change lots of things as multiple records are at stake, such as most points in a rookie season, most wins or pole positions claimed.