Kimi Antonelli is about to take the wheel of the Mercedes W12 during the upcoming 2021 Formula 1 season. With his move to Ferrari, a spot at Mercedes became available for the 2025 season. The team boss is currently considering several potential drivers, including the 17-year-old Antonelli. This talented driver will have the chance to showcase his skills in an upcoming test at the Red Bull Ring in Austria. The test will take place over two days starting on April 16, and Antonelli will have the opportunity to drive the Mercedes W12, the team’s car for the current season. This test will not interfere with Antonelli’s F2 campaign, as the next championship race is scheduled for May in Imola.
Kimi Antonelli is currently competing in the Formula 2 championship for Prema Racing team. There have been rumors that he was Mercedes’ top choice to replace Lewis Hamilton, who is leaving the team to join Ferrari. The team boss has expressed the challenges of finding a suitable replacement for Hamilton, but Antonelli, despite his young age, is seen as a strong long-term contender. Toto Wolff, the team boss, mentioned the availability of “super young talent” in the driver market, hinting that Antonelli is a potential option.
Mercedes will carefully consider all options in the coming months before making a decision in the competitive driver market. Wolff emphasized that the team’s future will also play a role in the selection process. He even mentioned the possibility of hiring Max Verstappen in the future. Therefore, Antonelli’s prospects in Formula 1 seem promising, as the team is willing to provide him with an opportunity. The team will closely evaluate Antonelli’s performance during the test, especially his lap times, before finalizing their driver lineup for the next season.
