With the departure of Lewis Hamilton for Ferrari, a page is turning at Mercedes, but the German team already has its eyes on the future. Andrea Kimi Antonelli, an 18-year-old Italian prodigy, is at the heart of Toto Wolff's plan to write a glorious new chapter. After having accumulated nearly 9,000 kilometers in tests, the equivalent of 30 Grands Prix, Antonelli is preparing to join the elite in 2026, alongside George Russell, in an era marked by new regulations. Although his career in Formula 2 has been mixed against opponents like Gabriel Bortoleto, Mercedes' ambition is clear: to make Antonelli a worthy successor to the legendary number 44.
Wolff calms things down
Wolff nevertheless remains cautious about expectations: “If you expect to see him on pole position in Australia, winning the race and fighting for the title, the risk is great. It won't happen.” A striking contrast with Hamilton's resounding debut in 2007, but which underlines the long-term strategy of the German manufacturer. If the pressure will be immense for Antonelli, he says calmly: “I know what Mercedes thinks of me, and that gives me confidence.” A mixture of patience and potential that could well redefine the future of the Silver Arrows in the years to come.
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To summarize
Lewis Hamilton has left, but Mercedes thinks they have found his successor!
