As Mercedes grapples with the loss of Lewis Hamilton to Ferrari and continues to recover from a challenging ground-effect era, FIA Steward and former F1 driver Johnny Herbert has suggested that the Silver Arrows may be poised for a resurgence in 2025. Despite recent struggles, Herbert believes Mercedes could capitalize on a closely contested season to re-establish themselves as a top contender.
Herbert: “2025 is Mercedes’ best chance”
Herbert acknowledged Mercedes’ struggles since the introduction of ground-effect regulations but pointed to the 2025 season as a potential turning point.
“The surprise of 2025 would, according to some, be Mercedes,” Herbert remarked. “They’ve been successful over the years but not lately. Is it feasible this year? This is probably the best chance they will get because I think the races will be so close.”
A bold bet: Kimi Antonelli replaces Hamilton
Mercedes enters the 2025 season with a fresh-faced lineup following Hamilton’s departure to Ferrari. At just 18 years old, Kimi Antonelli steps into Hamilton’s seat, partnering George Russell, who now assumes the role of team leader at Brackley.
Team Principal Toto Wolff has already tempered expectations for Antonelli, cautioning against putting undue pressure on the rookie. “It’s going to be a steep learning curve for Kimi,” Wolff admitted, but emphasized the team’s long-term investment in his development.
2026 rule changes loom, but the future is uncertain
Herbert highlighted the uncertainty surrounding the 2026 regulations, which will introduce new power units and chassis requirements. While Mercedes is likely to target a leadership position under the revised rules, Herbert suggested that 2025 represents a more immediate opportunity to capitalize on the current regulatory stability.
“If we then move on to 2026, things will be completely different,” Herbert said. “Nobody really knows what will happen that year. That is the year that a team has to take the horns and take the lead. And Mercedes can do that.”
Can Mercedes close the gap?
Last season, Mercedes finished a distant fourth in terms of pace, trailing Red Bull, McLaren, and Ferrari. While Russell and Antonelli face an uphill battle to contend with the frontrunners, Herbert believes the closeness of the 2025 grid could work in Mercedes’ favor.
With Red Bull continuing to lead the charge, McLaren surging with its strong package, and Ferrari revitalized by Hamilton’s arrival, the competition at the front is fiercer than ever. For Mercedes, success in 2025 will hinge on maximizing their resources, fine-tuning their car, and nurturing Antonelli’s potential while leaning on Russell’s growing experience.
A defining season for Mercedes
The 2025 season could determine whether Mercedes can reignite their dominance or remain in the shadow of their former glory. Herbert’s optimism suggests that, while a championship may be a stretch, the Silver Arrows have a real shot at turning heads and closing the gap at the sharp end of the grid.
