Italian Prodigy Kimi Antonelli to Replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes for 2025

Italian Kimi Antonelli, 18, will replace the legendary Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes next season. Team boss Toto Wolff confirmed the decision at Antonelli's home grand prix. Antonelli, who has been nurtured by Mercedes since 2019, is set to be the first rookie in 70 years to drive for the team.

Italian Kimi Antonelli will replace seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes next season, a deal announced at the 18-year-old's home grand prix on Saturday.

Team boss Toto Wolff revealed the decision was made shortly after Hamilton, 39, informed him in January of his move to Ferrari in 2025, stating, "Instinctively that is the line-up, with these two, that I always wanted."

Antonelli, who has been with Mercedes since 2019 and is currently competing in Formula Two, joins race-winner George Russell in the lineup. He will be the first rookie to drive for Mercedes in 70 years, bringing both anticipation and pressure as Hamilton's successor.

(With inputs from agencies.)