Featured Image Credit: Getty
Topics: Mercedes, Lewis Hamilton, George Russell, Formula 1
Ryan Smart
Mercedes have officially announced that Andrea Kimi Antonelli will replace Lewis Hamilton at the team for the 2025 season.
The 18-year-old, who made his free practice debut for the Silver Arrows at Monza yesterday, will partner George Russell next year following Hamilton's move to Ferrari.
Antonelli has enjoyed a rapid rise through the junior formulae, and has won two races in Formula 2 this season with Prema Racing.
He will now make the step up to Formula 1, becoming the youngest driver on the grid next year in the process.
Advert
The Italian has long been regarded by Mercedes as a future F1 star, and he had been one of two drivers heavily linked with taking Hamilton's seat at the Silver Arrows.
Team principal Toto Wolff revealed earlier this month that Mercedes held talks with the other driver believed to be in serious contention, three-time champion Max Verstappen, but that the team had determined the Dutchman would not be an option.
In a press release confirming his promotion, Antonelli said: "It is an amazing feeling to be announced as a Mercedes works driver alongside George for 2025.
Advert
"Reaching F1 is a dream I've had since I was a small boy. I want to thank the team for the support they've given me in my career so far and the faith they've shown in me.
"I'm also really excited to become George's team-mate. He came through the team's junior programme just like myself and is someone I have a huge amount of respect for.
"He is super-fast, a multiple Grand Prix winner, and has already helped me improve as a driver."
Advert
Wolff commented: "Our 2025 driver line-up combines experience, talent, youth and out-and-out raw speed.
"We are excited about what George and Kimi bring to the team both as individual drivers, but also as a partnership.
"Our new line-up is perfect to open the next chapter in our story. It is also a testament to the strength of our junior programme and our belief in home-grown talent."