Kimi Antonelli, at 17 years old, has been granted the FIA Super License. This decision comes after a driver from Mercedes left, leaving them in need of a new driver. Despite having several options available, including more experienced drivers, the 17-year-old youngster, Antonelli, emerged as the top choice.
Antonelli, a rising star in the Mercedes program, made his debut in F2 this season. He impressed the team during his private tests in F1. However, the previous Super License rules established by the FIA prevented drivers under the age of 18 from participating in F1 sessions. This rule was implemented after the 17-year-old’s debut with Toro Rosso.
Toto Wolff, head of the Mercedes team, had previously hinted that Antonelli was the preferred choice for the future. The Italian driver would be an ideal teammate for , with the latter taking on a leadership role to guide his younger colleague. Although there is no official confirmation from Mercedes, the recent rule change by the FIA strongly suggests that Antonelli will secure a place in the team for the 2025 season.
There were rumors circulating a few weeks ago that Mercedes had requested the granting of a super license for Antonelli at the age of 17. Toto Wolff quickly dismissed these rumors, but the FIA’s decision now confirms that the reports were indeed true.
The age limit of 18 for the Super License has been in effect for almost a decade. The fact that the FIA has added a provision indicates that they received a serious request from Mercedes. Additionally, Wolff recently ruled out Carlos Sainz as a possible replacement for Lewis Hamilton, who is moving to Ferrari.
No final, Kimi Antonelli was the only driver who met the criteria to race for Mercedes. Toto Wolff showed great confidence in the young Italian driver. Antonelli currently holds sixth position in the Formula 2 standings, with 48 points.
Undoubtedly, Kimi Antonelli managed to impress Toto Wolff and secure a chance in the pinnacle of motorsport. He has already accumulated enough points to qualify for the super license. Now, we eagerly await the official announcement from Mercedes confirming Antonelli as their driver for the next F1 season.
