Andrea Kimi Antonelli made a great impression during the tests carried out with Mercedes Silverstone, but the German car manufacturer wanted to clarify that these tests were not aimed at comparing the young driver with Mick Schumacher and George Russell, nor at deciding on the driver for the 2025 season.
Antonelli, 17, has had a rapid rise in the minor motorsport categories, with consecutive victories in the Italian and German Formula 4 championships, as well as the Middle East and European Formula Regional. This year he made his debut in Formula 2, where he currently occupies sixth place in the general classification, having scored points in seven of the ten races held and reaching his best finish of fourth in Melbourne, Imola and Monaco.
Supported by Mercedes since 2019, Antonelli has had the opportunity to test Formula 1 cars, starting with the 2021 car in Austria, followed by another session with the 2022 Mercedes in Imola. Mercedes Technical Director James Allison praised the young Italian's performance. Highlighting its ability to adapt and the consistency shown during testing.
The press release from Mercedes
However, Mercedes wanted to specify that the recent tests at Silverstone, which also saw the participation of Mick Schumacher and George Russell, they were not aimed at a direct comparison between pilots.
“It is perhaps understandable that, as these were private tests, there has been much speculation about their purpose and content. Our latest test at Silverstone featured Mick, Kimi and George and was wrongly labeled as a comparison, but that was neither the intention nor the test results” specified the team, explaining that each driver followed a different work program, on different days and climatic conditions.
“It is important to understand that each driver completed different programs, on different days, in different weather and track conditions. Both Mick and Kimi did an excellent job in completing their respective programs, to the full satisfaction of the team. And we can't wait to race three intense days next week too."
Team principal Toto Wolff said he wanted to avoid putting undue pressure on Antonelli as the team evaluates options for the future. With Schumacher and Antonelli ready to return to the track for testing in Spain, Mercedes continues to closely monitor the performances of its young talents. However, without rushing decisions regarding the lineup for the 2025 season.
More Mercedes tests await Andrea Kimi Antonelli
Mercedes also announced that Antonelli will carry out a further test at the Circuit of Catalunya next week, using the 13-spec W2022 chassis. These tests, however, will not determine who will replace Lewis Hamilton, who has signed for Ferrari for next season.
Source statements: FormulaPassion
