Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has confirmed Andrea Kimi Antonelli as his number-one option above Red Bull’s Max Verstappen to fill Lewis Hamilton’s seat in 2025, alongside George Russell.
Emphasizing Kimi Antonelli as his top choice and a “calculated risk,” Wolff places full faith in the 17-year-old junior driver with zero Formula 1 racing experience.
Wolff is focused on finding the “best driver available” and sees tremendous potential in Kimi Antonelli, comparing him to Oscar Piastri.
He clarified that he is keeping his options open and is closely monitoring the driver market before making a final decision.
Speaking to Autosport Wereld, he said: The criteria for our next driver are simple: We want the best driver available.
“At the moment, my first option is Kimi Antonelli.
They are not so much in his talent as a driver, but Antonelli would be exposed to the media and to the skill of George Russell, one of the best drivers on the grid.
“But Kimi has enormous potential.”He added:” So I’m happy to take a risk with Antonelli, because it’s a calculated risk.
“I will continue to observe the market. I am not sure how things will evolve further at Red Bull.”
