Mercedes targets Kimi Antonelli to replace Lewis Hamilton for 2025

Mercedes has identified 18‑year‑old Italian driver Kimi Antonelli as its leading candidate to take over Lewis Hamilton’s seat for the 2025 Formula 1 season. Antonelli impressed during Free Practice 1 sessions at the Hungarian and Italian Grands Prix, posting lap times close to the team’s regular drivers and earning praise from Team Principal Toto Wolff for his adaptability and technical feedback.

Current team leader George Russell remains the primary race driver and will serve as the benchmark against which Antonelli’s readiness is assessed. Hamilton, a nine‑time world champion, confirmed his move to Ferrari for 2025, adding urgency to Mercedes’ driver planning.

Ahead of the Silverstone home Grand Prix, Russell and Hamilton are set to race with the team’s recent dominance—seven wins in eight races—while Antonelli’s recent successes, including three victories, are highlighted as a sign of the rookie’s growing confidence. The event also features strong competition from Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, who expects a challenging race at the historic circuit.