In a bold move aimed at rejuvenating their driver lineup, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team has announced that Kimi Antonelli will partner with George Russell for the 2025 Formula 1 season. At just 18 years old, Antonelli is making the leap from Formula 2 a year after graduating from Mercedes’ junior program, echoing Russell's own rise in the sport.
The decision was revealed today, marking a new chapter as the team seeks to harness youth alongside experience. "Our 2025 driver line-up combines experience, talent, youth and out-and-out raw speed," said Toto Wolff, the team's principal. This blend of attributes is expected to propel the team forward as it competes at the highest levels of motorsport.
Wolff expressed enthusiasm for both drivers, noting, "We are excited about what George and Kimi bring to the team both as individual drivers, but also as a partnership." He praised Russell’s established track record, stating, "George has proved that he is one of the very best drivers in the world... he has also developed into a strong leader within the team."
The versatile nature of Antonelli, who has already demonstrated exceptional skill in junior categories, assures teammates that he will be a formidable addition. "Kimi has consistently shown the talent and speed needed to compete at the very top of our sport. We know it will be another big step up..." Wolff continued. "In George, he has an experienced team-mate from whom he can learn and hone his craft."
George Russell echoed his excitement about teaming up with Antonelli, stating, "I’m really excited to be partnering with Kimi for 2025. His record in junior formula has been formidable and his promotion is truly deserved." As a product of the Mercedes junior program himself, Russell is committed to guiding Antonelli in his transition to F1.
Reflecting on his own journey, Russell noted, "I know how much of a support Lewis was for me throughout my time as a junior driver... I hope to play a similar role for Kimi." Russell's experience—ranging from championships in GP3 and F2 to his recent success in F1—positions him as an ideal mentor.
For Antonelli, this shift to F1 is a longstanding dream realized. He remarked, "It is an amazing feeling to be announced as a Mercedes works driver alongside George for 2025. Reaching F1 is a dream I’ve had since I was a small boy." His gratitude towards the team for their support throughout his career was evident. "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 am still learning a lot, but I feel ready for the opportunity."
His journey in motorsport has been remarkable. Starting at the age of 12 with Mercedes’ junior program, Antonelli racked up titles in karting and swiftly advanced to single-seaters, clinching championships in both the ADAC and Italian Formula 4 before taking on the FIA Formula 2 challenge this year.
So far, he has secured two wins in the 2024 season, including a celebrated Feature Race in Budapest. "I will be focused on getting better and delivering the best possible results for the team," Antonelli affirmed. His ambition and readiness to learn underline his eagerness to contribute positively at the pinnacle of motorsport.
Markus Schäfer, Non-Executive Chairman and Mercedes-Benz AG CTO, also shared his optimism about the upcoming season, saying, "It is an exciting time for the team as we unveil our driver line-up for 2025. We open the next chapter in our story next year and have a fantastic partnership with which to do so."
As both drivers prepare for the upcoming challenges, the synergy between the tenacity of youth and the wisdom of experience could prove to be a winning combination for Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team. With their sights set on future world championships, the anticipation builds not just for the team, but for racing fans worldwide eager to witness the unfolding of this new era. The partnership between Antonelli and Russell is expected to enhance the team's competitive edge, and all eyes will be on them in the 2025 season.