Eighteen-year-old Kimi Antonelli is set to take over the reins at Mercedes next season, stepping into a high-profile role alongside George Russell as he replaces the Ferrari-bound, seven-time world champion. After a rocky debut at Monza where he crashed Russell’s car during practice, Antonelli faces immense pressure, but he’s not facing it alone. Mercedes icon Lewis Hamilton has taken the young driver under his wing, offering advice and reassurance as Antonelli prepares for his big break.
“Kimi’s young and he’s learning,” Hamilton remarked to reporters. “I spoke to him after Monza, told him he doesn’t need to prove anything on the first lap. Just build into it, enjoy the experience, and take it step by step. The track can be dirty early on, but he’ll handle it just fine.”
Hamilton’s mentorship comes at a crucial time, as Antonelli will be joining the Mercedes lineup with sky-high expectations. The young driver’s arrival also marks a new era for Mercedes as the team adjusts to life without its seasoned champion.
As Hamilton returns to Mexico City, a circuit where he’s claimed two championship-defining victories, he faces his own set of challenges. Coming off a dismal weekend in Austin that saw him start 17th and retire after just two laps, Hamilton is keeping expectations measured for the upcoming race.
“You never really know what to expect,” he admitted. “The car’s unpredictable, so we need to stay focused, make the right calls, and see how it plays out.”
With Antonelli’s arrival on the horizon and Hamilton’s seasoned hand guiding him, Mercedes is embarking on a season of transformation, blending youthful potential with veteran wisdom as they seek to reclaim their former glory on the F1 grid.
