Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has recently shed light on the future of Antonelli, emphasizing the team’s intention to evaluate his performance in Formula Two before making any decisions regarding his Formula One debut.
Antonelli, at the tender age of 17, has already made waves in the junior circuits, showcasing his prowess and potential to one day fill the void left by the departure of Lewis Hamilton to Ferrari in 2025.
Wolff, speaking during pre-season testing in Bahrain, conveyed his confidence in Antonelli’s abilities, stating, “He’s going to be a very, very successful driver in Formula One.”
However, Wolff also expressed a desire to manage expectations and pressures associated with Antonelli’s progression. Acknowledging the challenges and uncertainties that lie ahead, Wolff aims to approach the situation with a blend of patience and strategic foresight.
“We’ve got that curveball thrown at us with Lewis in the beginning of February, and I want to do the opposite when choosing the driver for next year” Wolff remarked, highlighting the careful consideration that will guide their decision-making process.
Meanwhile, James Vowles, who now leads Williams and previously contributed to Antonelli’s inclusion in the Mercedes junior programme, offered a tempered perspective. Vowles, well-aware of the intricacies of nurturing young talents, cautioned against premature predictions about Antonelli’s placement within Williams or any other Formula One team.
With a focus on developing the next generation, Vowles underscored the importance of a comprehensive development programme for junior drivers, aimed at equipping them with the skills and experience necessary for the rigors of Formula One.
