Source – Euronews.com
In 2025, Kimi Antonelli will officially start his Formula 1 career with the car number he has chosen, provided the FIA grants his permission.
Kimi Antonelli’s rise to Formula 1 has been nothing short of meteoric, and the Italian sensation’s recent announcement as Lewis Hamilton’s successor at Mercedes has added a new layer of excitement to his already dazzling career. The 18-year-old’s promotion was confirmed during the Italian Grand Prix weekend at Monza, where he made his FP1 debut in front of a home crowd that erupted in support. But as the dust settles on that monumental news, one burning question remained—what number would Antonelli choose to carry into his F1 journey?
The answer came swiftly and confidently. During a press conference in the Monza paddock, Antonelli was asked what number would adorn his Mercedes car when he makes his debut in 2025. Without hesitation, the young driver declared his preference for number 12, a number with deep personal significance. It’s a number that carried him through some of the most successful moments of his junior career, including his dominant victories in the Italian and ADAC Formula 4 championships in 2022, and his subsequent triumphs in both the Middle East and European Formula Regional championships the following year.
“I have many numbers that I like, but 12 is a special one,” Antonelli explained. “I’ve been using it since F4, and it always went well, so there’s no reason to change it for next year.” His voice carried the weight of a young man fully aware of the history he’s stepping into—both his own and that of the team he will soon represent.
For Antonelli, securing a place in the Mercedes Formula 1 team has been a dream realized. With the announcement now official and the months ticking down to his full-time debut alongside George Russell, Antonelli is beginning to grasp the magnitude of what lies ahead. “Obviously it’s something I’ve been dreaming of since a very young age,” he admitted with a smile that revealed a mixture of excitement and humility. “To finally be announced as a driver for 2025 is such a great feeling. I cannot wait to get started.”
Yet, the shadow of the man he’s replacing looms large. Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time world champion and one of the greatest drivers in F1 history, is not someone you simply replace. Antonelli was quick to acknowledge this during the same press conference. “Well, I think, it’s not possible to replace [him],” Antonelli said, reflecting on the enormity of Hamilton’s achievements. “He’s such a great figure in the sport today, and he has achieved so much in his career. I don’t want to see it as his replacement, I’m just the next driver for Mercedes.”
Despite the inevitable comparisons, Antonelli remains grounded and focused. He spoke of Hamilton with admiration, noting that the Briton had been supportive of him as he prepares for the transition into the Mercedes seat. “He’s a really great guy, he’s given me some support, so I’m really happy.”
For now, Antonelli’s path to Formula 1 continues through familiar avenues. He remains committed to finishing his rookie season in Formula 2, where he currently sits sixth in the standings with three rounds to go. The experience of competing at such a high level has been invaluable for the young driver, who has already earned a reputation for his precision and maturity behind the wheel. In addition to his F2 duties, Antonelli will also continue testing Mercedes’ previous Formula 1 machinery as part of their TPC (Testing of Previous Cars) programme, allowing him to sharpen his skills and become even more accustomed to the rigors of F1 driving.
But as the world eagerly awaits Antonelli’s arrival in the sport’s top tier, it’s clear that the young Italian is ready for the challenge. Number 12 will adorn his car next year, a symbolic nod to his past victories and a harbinger of what could be a glittering future. With a combination of raw talent, determination, and the backing of one of the sport’s most successful teams, Antonelli is poised to take the next leap in his career and cement his place among Formula 1’s elite.
The echoes of Monza still ring in the air, the cheers of his home fans a reminder of how far he’s come. As Antonelli prepares to step into the shoes of a legend, the world watches, and the next chapter in the Mercedes story begins to unfold. One thing is certain—Kimi Antonelli is no ordinary driver, and his journey has only just begun.
