Lewis Hamilton’s legacy at Mercedes is set to continue through Andrea Kimi Antonelli, the 18-year-old Italian driver poised to replace Hamilton for the 2025 Formula 1 season. Antonelli, who has been part of the Mercedes junior program since 2019, has expressed that his driving style closely mirrors that of the seven-time world champion.
Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has emphasized the team’s intention to manage expectations for Antonelli’s rookie season, focusing on his development with an eye toward their 2026 driver lineup.
Antonelli’s progression through the racing ranks, including his time in Formula 2, has been under Mercedes’ guidance, reflecting the team’s commitment to nurturing talent that embodies the qualities Hamilton brought to the team. This strategic approach aims to ensure that the principles and performance standards established during Hamilton’s tenure persist, fostering a seamless transition and sustained success for Mercedes in the evolving landscape of Formula 1.
