Toto Wolff has admitted that Mercedes are taking a “danger” by selling Kimi Antonelli to a race seat for the 2025 season, however he’s assured the Italian teenager has all of the uncooked components wanted to succeed.
Antonelli was introduced as Lewis Hamilton’s future alternative on the latest Italian Grand Prix, the place he additionally made his free apply debut, finishing an increase from Formulation 4 to Formulation 1 in simply three years.
EXCLUSIVE: ‘Kimi would be the actual deal’ – Wolff on Antonelli’s signing, Russell’s senior position and his Hamilton relationship
It was an occasion of blended feelings for the 18-year-old, whose FP1 outing lasted simply 10 minutes earlier than he crashed out closely, with the Silver Arrows then confirming him as George Russell’s new group mate the next day.
Requested about Antonelli’s apply outing and incident, Mercedes boss Wolff stated: “That may occur. I feel we don’t wish to sluggish a driver down. We’re completely happy to work with somebody who has a lot velocity, that has confidence.
