The anticipation is building as Mercedes-Benz announces its dynamic driver lineup for the 2025 Formula 1 season, confirming the exciting pairing of George Russell and rising star Kimi Antonelli. This announcement marks a significant moment for the team, blending Russell’s established talent with the fresh, electrifying potential of Antonelli. For motorsport enthusiasts and Mercedes fans worldwide, the 2025 season promises a thrilling new chapter.
Kimi Antonelli’s ascent to Formula 1 is a testament to his exceptional skill and the renowned Mercedes junior programme. Joining the programme at just 12 years old in 2019, Antonelli has rapidly progressed through the ranks, dominating at every stage. His karting accolades include prestigious FIA Karting European Championship and WSK Euro Series titles. Transitioning to single-seaters, he continued his winning streak, securing both the ADAC and Italian Formula 4 championships in 2022, followed by the Formula Regional European Championship in 2023. His seamless adaptation to FIA Formula 2 in 2024, marked by two impressive victories, including a Feature Race win in Budapest, solidified his readiness for the pinnacle of motorsport.
“It is an amazing feeling to be announced as a Mercedes works driver alongside George for 2025,” Antonelli stated, expressing his excitement. “Reaching F1 is a dream I’ve had since I was a small boy.” He acknowledged the crucial role of the team’s support throughout his journey, adding, “I want to thank the team for the support they’ve given me in my career so far and the faith they’ve shown in me. I am still learning a lot, but I feel ready for the opportunity.” Antonelli’s commitment to continuous improvement is clear as he emphasizes, “I will be focused on getting better and delivering the best possible results for the team.”
The prospect of partnering with George Russell is another source of enthusiasm for Antonelli. “I’m also really excited to become George’s team-mate,” he shared. Recognizing Russell’s achievements and experience, Antonelli sees this partnership as a valuable learning opportunity. “He came through the team’s junior programme just like myself and is someone I have a huge amount of respect for. He is super-fast, a multiple Grand Prix winner, and has already helped me improve as a driver. I am looking forward to learning from him and working together to deliver on track.”
Markus Schäfer, Non-Executive Chairman & Mercedes-Benz AG CTO, echoed the excitement surrounding the new driver lineup. “It is an exciting time for the team as we unveil our driver line-up for 2025. We open the next chapter in our story next year and have a fantastic partnership with which to do so.” Schäfer highlighted Russell’s growth within the team, noting, “George, as a multiple Grand Prix winner, has developed into a top-tier driver. It has been a pleasure to see him come through the ranks of the team’s junior programme, establish himself in F1 over the past few years, and become a leader within the team.” He further emphasized Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to nurturing young talent, stating, “Kimi, just like George and Lewis, is one of our home-grown talents with a very promising future. His record at junior level is incredibly impressive and his raw speed is clear to see. I can’t wait to see him in a race seat next year and watch his supreme talent shine in a Mercedes F1 car.”
The Mercedes 2025 driver partnership of George Russell and Kimi Antonelli represents a strategic blend of experience and youthful vigor. As Antonelli prepares to make his Formula 1 debut, the motorsport world eagerly anticipates witnessing the synergy between these two talented drivers and the heights Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team can achieve.
