The head of the Mercedes team, Toto Wolff, has suggested that he is against the early introduction of Andrea Kimi Antonelli into Formula 1, despite a request from Williams. During the Miami Grand Prix, it was revealed that Williams had sent a request to the FIA to exempt Antonelli from the minimum age requirement in F1. Currently, the Italian has the necessary 40 points to obtain an FIA Super License, but he cannot get it until he turns 18 on August 25. However, the FIA panel has the power to waive this rule under specific circumstances, potentially allowing Antonelli to replace Logan Sargeant at Williams. However, Wolff made it clear that Mercedes has not approached the FIA with the intention of securing an early release for Antonelli. He emphasized the importance of not rushing Antonelli’s progression to the highest level and highlighted the need for him to focus on his campaign in Formula 2, as well as the extensive tests he is doing for Mercedes to help him adapt.
Antonelli has been juggling his debut season in F2 with tests in previous Mercedes F1 cars. He started with the 2021 model at the Red Bull Ring and then moved on to the W13 at Imola.
The young driver, who is part of the Mercedes development program, is one of the candidates for a spot in the German team in 2025. This opportunity has arisen because Lewis Hamilton is leaving Mercedes to join Ferrari.
Although Max Verstappen is the main target of Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff, the current F1 champion has made it clear that he intends to fulfill his contract with Red Bull.
Another option under consideration is Carlos Sainz of Ferrari. This negotiation could result in Antonelli being loaned to Williams, similar to what happened with George Russell.
Williams already has Alex Albon signed until 2025, which means Sargeant’s chances of securing a place in the team seem slim. The American driver had a tough start to his second season.
There were rumors that Williams was considering putting Antonelli in their FW46 car for the upcoming race in Imola. However, team director James Vowles quickly dismissed these rumors. However, he acknowledged that Antonelli is being considered for the future.
Vowles stated: “Currently, we are evaluating drivers for the 2025 and 2026 seasons. We are looking for the right driver pairing for that period of time, especially considering the upcoming regulation changes. Although Antonelli is undeniably talented, he was competing in F4 just 20 months ago. We are in talks with several drivers and will take our time to make a decision.”
