Mercedes has confirmed a unique driver 'swap' ahead of the US Grand Prix through a social media video. Lewis Hamilton will leave the team after securing six world titles and will join Ferrari in 2025. Following a challenging period marked by a 945-day winless streak from the 2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Hamilton finally returned to victory at Silverstone in an emotional race.
As for Hamilton's replacement at Mercedes, the team has announced that Italian talent Kimi Antonelli will join George Russell next season. Antonelli will face a significant challenge, as Russell has proven to be a formidable competitor, having out-qualified Hamilton 13 times to 5 this season and finishing ahead of him on 11 occasions.
Despite their on-track rivalry, the two frequently engage in lighthearted social media activities for Mercedes, including a recent clothes swap video. Hamilton, known for his bold fashion choices that defy traditional F1 driver attire, contrasts with Russell's more classic and understated style.
In the video, they styled each other’s outfits: Hamilton donned a smart combination reminiscent of Russell's look, complete with the signature '4cm of ankle' visibility, while Russell embraced Hamilton's relaxed aesthetic.
Kimi Antonelli's career will officially begin in 2025 after the FIA (Federation Internationale de l'Automobile) approval. In the Monza Paddock, a press conference was announced where the youngster answered a lot of questions from the media including the car number of his career.
Antonelli replied that car number 12 is his preference. According to him, he used the number for the Italian and ADAC F4 titles in 2022. He had the same car number in the Middle East and European Formula Regional crowns last year.
“I have many numbers that I like, but 12 is a special one. I have been using it since F4 [and] it always went well, so there’s no reason to change it for next year," said the 18-year-old.
“Well, I think, it’s not possible to replace [him]. He’s such a great figure in the sport today and he has achieved so much in his career. I don’t want to see it as his replacement, I’m just the next driver for Mercedes. He’s a really great guy, he’s given me some support, so I’m really happy," Kimi said on replacing Hamilton.
