Source – GPfans
The tale of Lewis Hamilton’s replacement has a new chapter thanks to Toto Wolff, the principal of the Mercedes team.
As Mercedes gears up for a major shift in its driver lineup, team principal Toto Wolff has teased a potential twist in the plans for Lewis Hamilton’s successor. The speculation has been rife since it was announced that the seven-time world champion would be making a move to Ferrari for the 2025 season. The hunt for a fitting replacement has been one of the most talked-about stories in the F1 paddock.
Initial speculation suggested that top drivers like Max Verstappen and Carlos Sainz were being considered as potential partners to George Russell. However, recent developments have shifted the focus towards young talent Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who has been making waves as a standout driver in Formula 2 and as a member of the Mercedes Junior Team.
The latest comments from Wolff, made during the Dutch Grand Prix, have only added to the intrigue. Wolff hinted at a possible confirmation of Antonelli’s move to Mercedes, but with a twist. Speaking to the media, he said, “The two drivers that are in the car next year have our full support.” This remark seemed to suggest that Antonelli, alongside Russell, could be Mercedes’ choice for 2025.
Despite the strong indications that Antonelli is poised for the seat, Wolff played his cards close to his chest, noting, “Everyone knows what we’re doing. We’ll announce it shortly. Maybe we’ll take our time until Abu Dhabi [the final race of the season], but nobody is rushing.” This has left the door open for speculation about whether the much-anticipated announcement could be made at the Italian Grand Prix or later in the season.
The delay in confirming Antonelli’s appointment might seem unusual given the high-profile nature of Hamilton’s departure, but it underscores the careful deliberation that Mercedes is applying to ensure the right fit for their future. While it appears that Antonelli is the leading candidate, Wolff’s comments suggest that Mercedes is taking a strategic approach, ensuring that all aspects of their future lineup are perfectly aligned before making any formal announcements.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Mercedes to see how the situation unfolds and when the official confirmation will come. For now, the twist in the tale is keeping fans and pundits guessing about the future of one of F1’s most successful teams.
