Mercedes' choice for 2025 seems made: 'Wolff's ego plays a big role'
F1 News
- Corwin Kunst
Carlos Sainz's chances at other teams are dwindling by the week. Red Bull Racing, meanwhile, are no longer an option and Mercedes seems increasingly inclined towards Kimi Andrea Antonelli as George Russell's teammate in 2025. Jacques Villeneuve thinks he is certain that the German formation will opt for the still only 17-year-old driver.
At least, according to the one-time world champion, it is mainly Toto Wolff who chooses Antonelli. The Mercedes team principal is said to want to prove that he recognised the young Italian's talent early on.
"Toto Wolff does not allow any other solution than Antonelli. It has been decided, this is Antonelli's team for the future," Villeneuve told Sky Sports Germany over the weekend in Canada. "He has been preparing for this for years and Toto Wolff's ego also plays a huge role in the decision in favour of Antonelli. He wants to prove to the world that he was right to support the young Italian when he was only 12 years old."
Antonelli to turn 18 next season
Wolff indicated last week that Sainz need not count on a contract offer from Mercedes. The Silver Arrows would rather focus on a younger driver, the 50-year-old Austrian said. With Antonelli, Mercedes is well placed in that respect, as he only turns 18 in August. That means he is also old enough to be eligible for a super licence in the king class of motorsport.