Kimi Antonelli faces mounting pressure as Mercedes F1 prospects grow

Antonelli, a promising driver nurtured within Mercedes' junior program, is strongly linked to a seat at the team for the 2025 Formula 1 season, following Lewis Hamilton's move to Ferrari.

Having clinched the Formula Regional European Championship last season, the Italian prodigy made a significant stride into Formula 2 this year. His breakthrough came recently at Silverstone, where he conquered challenging wet conditions to claim victory in an F2 sprint race.

Commenting on Antonelli's ability to handle the pressure, Wolff commended the 17-year-old's composed demeanour under scrutiny. "What stands out about him is his family's objective approach to evaluating situations, whether they are good enough or need improvement," Wolff noted.

"The pressure doesn't seem to affect his performance on track or his driving."

This season, Antonelli competes alongside Oliver Bearman at Prema Racing, with Bearman already confirmed for a 2025 F1 seat with Haas. Wolff highlighted Antonelli's performance relative to Bearman as a testament to his talent. "The competition with Ollie Bearman is a good benchmark," Wolff observed.

"They've been closely matched throughout the season."

Despite challenges such as a clutch release issue at a recent race in Austria, Antonelli's rapid rise through the ranks underscores his potential. "He's only 17, yet his career trajectory has been meteoric," Wolff remarked. 

"He hasn't even obtained a road driving license yet."

Looking ahead, Wolff acknowledged the growing intensity of scrutiny and expectations surrounding Antonelli's future. "The ability to thrive under such pressure is crucial," Wolff emphasized. "And as his prospects with Mercedes F1 expand, so will the demands on him."

The next event on the 2024 F1 calendar is the Hungarian Grand Prix, scheduled from July 19-21 at the Hungaroring in Budapest, promising another thrilling chapter in the Formula 1 season.