A few weeks ago, Mercedes confirmed that Kimi Antonelli will partner George Russell for the 2025 season. The 18-year-old Italian, who has been a standout in the junior categories, will replace Lewis Hamilton. Antonelli has already made a name for himself with his impressive performances in F2 and his recent FP1 appearances with Mercedes.

Russell is excited to partner up with him, believing his talent will push him and improve Mercedes’ competitiveness. The 2025 F1 season will see many rookies on the grid, with Kimi Antonelli being one of them. Antonelli’s promotion after Lewis Hamilton‘s departure is a testament to his talent and potential.

George Russell said that while experience helps with weekends, speed comes naturally, something he believes Antonelli has. I’ve always thought that with experience you gain a lot over time, in terms of managing the weekend, the tyres, the team. But I don’t think I’m any faster today on a dry pace than I was when I was 17.

You either have speed or you don’t, and Kimi absolutely has it. There will be mistakes along the way. George Russell said, as reported by Formula1The next season will see Russell and Antonelli battle it out on the track.

The Briton believes Antonelli’s fearless nature and incredible speed are likely to keep him on his toes. Kimi is exceptionally fast and I have no doubt that next year he will keep me on tenterhooks and I can’t wait to face a new challenge. Three years of working with Lewis have been exceptional, but I can’t wait to see what we can do together starting next year.

George Russell addedRELATEDEx-Red Bull driver Alex Albon warns Liam Lawson to ‘not jump too quickly’ alongside Max VerstappenGeorge Russell asserts ‘focused on driving’ despite speculation about his future with MercedesMercedes team principal Toto Wolff has openly praised Max Verstappen’s exceptional talent and admitted his interest in signing him. Ex-F1 driver Nico Rosberg had thus warned George Russell that his seat at Mercedes isn’t guaranteed. George Russell (Via: Imago)Despite said rumors, Russell isn’t concerned.

He said that he has an ongoing agreement with Mercedes and remains focused on his driving. It’s something we’ve not spoken about at all to be honest. I’ve been with this team for so so long, I’m managed by Mercedes, and we’ve always said we will be continuing together.

There’s a lot of conversations going on which are quite entertaining to read, but from my side, I’m not focused on any of that. I’m just focused on my driving. George Russell said, as reported by Mirror.

co. ukRELATEDEx-F1 driver casts doubt over Max Verstappen and Lando Norris’ ‘friendship’ amidst 2024 title fightRussell is excited about his new leadership role in 2025, seeing it as an opportunity to showcase his growth. With 18-year-old Antonelli joining Mercedes, the Briton will likely take on a bigger responsibility in guiding the team forward.