Who is Kimi Antonelli? The new 18-year-old F1 driver who replaced Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes
Kimi Antonelli, an 18-year-old Italian prodigy, has recently entered the world of Formula 1 as the new driver for the Mercedes team. He replaces Lewis Hamilton, who left Mercedes to join Ferrari. This transition marks a significant turning point for the German team, which is betting on youth and talent to continue shining in the championship.
Career and Rise
Kimi Antonelli, born in Bologna, Italy, celebrated his 18th birthday last August 25. His meteoric rise in motorsport has caught the attention of many observers. After impressing in lower categories, notably in Formula 4 and Regional Formula, Antonelli was promoted directly to Formula 2, skipping Formula 3 altogether. This bold decision by Mercedes reflects the confidence placed in him and his exceptional potential.
Promising F1 Debut
Antonelli’s debut in Formula 1 was remarkable. At the 2025 Japanese Grand Prix, he became the youngest driver to lead a race and set the fastest lap, at the age of 18 years and 224 days. He led the race for 10 laps and clocked a lap time of 1:30.965 at the Suzuka circuit, eventually finishing sixth, just ahead of his teammate George Russell.
Partnership with George Russell
Antonelli joins Mercedes alongside George Russell, an experienced driver who has already proven his worth within the team. Russell, himself a product of the Mercedes young driver program, expressed excitement about working with Antonelli. He praised the young Italian's impressive performances in junior categories and said he was looking forward to working with him to advance the team.
A Determined and Ambitious Personality
Despite the pressure of following in the footsteps of a legend like Hamilton, Antonelli remains focused on his goals. He stated that he does not want to be seen solely as Hamilton’s replacement, but rather as a driver aiming to write his own story within Mercedes.
Off the track, Antonelli recently obtained his driver’s license, a symbolic milestone for this young racer who, until now, had not been allowed to drive on public roads despite his racing experience.