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Wolff full of enthusiasm about Antonelli: 'We can't wait!'
- Savannah Lenz
Andrea Kimi Antonelli is often viewed as the next big talent. In fact, some think he could be the next Max Verstappen, who similarly joined the competition as a teenager. In 2025, the young Italian is set for his debut year in F1, and Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff he can't wait to finally see Antonelli in action.
In September, shortly after his eighteenth birthday, Mercedes announced that Antonelli would make his F1 debut at the German team in 2025. Prior to that, there had been rumours about a possible arrival of Max Verstappen to the team lead by Toto Wolff. After some conversations, the Dutchman decided to remain loyal to Red Bull and Mercedes opted for the arrival of the Italian.
Despite the high expectations around Antonelli, Wolff has so far done everything he can to put as little pressure on the Italian's shoulders as possible. He emphasised that the aim in 2025 is to prepare Mercedes' new driver for 2026, when new F1 regulations are set to be introduced. By then Antonelli will have a year of experience at his back in the category.
Wolff enthusiastic about Antonelli
The preparations for the new season are now in full swing. Wolff told Motorsport: "They [the preparations] are going well. We have known him [Antonelli] since he was 11. He has integrated well into the team, and we have tested a lot with him. We can't wait to see him in the car." Wolff also said that he is enthusiastic about the Mercedes talent. The Austrian team boss stated that he has seen things in Antonelli that he has also seen in other good drivers. He mentioned intelligence and empathy, but also 'raw talent and speed'. "He knows how to drive, knows who to fight with and how to be a lion in the car. That doesn't necessarily have to be visible on the outside," Wolff concluded.
This article was written in collaboration with Cas van de Kleut.
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