Andrea Kimi Antonelli, driver for Prema Racing F2, caught the attention of Lewis Hamilton. Hamilton expressed his preference for Antonelli to replace him at the Mercedes Formula 1 team in 2025, taking over Toto Wolff’s position. Hamilton’s decision to leave Mercedes and join Ferrari next season opened up a spot at the German team. While Wolff showed interest in hiring Max Verstappen, the Red Bull driver made it clear that he intends to stay with his current team. With Fernando Alonso also unavailable due to his contract extension with Aston Martin, Carlos Sainz from Ferrari and Antonelli are seen as the top candidates for the Mercedes seat.
Antonelli, who is only 17 years old, is currently in his debut season in Formula 2. In addition to his F2 commitments, he has been participating in an intensive testing program with Mercedes. When asked about Sainz as a potential choice for Mercedes, Hamilton praised the Spanish driver but expressed his preference for Antonelli, stating that he would choose the young driver if he were in charge.
If Antonelli joins Mercedes, it would be reminiscent of Hamilton’s own experience in 2007. Hamilton made his F1 debut with McLaren alongside reigning champion Fernando Alonso. Despite being a rookie, Hamilton came close to winning the championship, finishing just one point behind. He would eventually win the championship in his second attempt and add six more titles to his name after joining Mercedes in 2013.
However, Hamilton has been struggling to secure victories since December 2021 due to Mercedes’ difficulties with the current ground effect cars. This has led to his decision to switch to Ferrari. Hamilton’s departure left Sainz without a seat, but there are reports that he is considering a proposal from Audi. Audi is set to enter the series for the first time in 2026, taking over the current Sauber team.
When asked about his future plans, Sainz admitted that a decision has not yet been made and things are progressing slowly.
