The Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team has officially announced its driver pairing for the 2025 season, confirming rising star Kimi Antonelli alongside established talent George Russell. This exciting announcement signals a new chapter for the team, blending youth and experience as they look to the future of Formula 1.
Kimi Antonelli’s ascent to Formula 1 has been nothing short of meteoric. Joining the Mercedes junior programme at just 12 years old in 2019, Antonelli has rapidly progressed through the motorsport ranks. His karting career was marked by significant achievements, including FIA Karting European Championship and WSK Euro Series titles. Transitioning to single-seaters, he continued his dominant form, securing both the ADAC and Italian Formula 4 championships in 2022, followed by the Formula Regional European Championship title in 2023. In 2024, Antonelli stepped up to the FIA Formula 2 Championship and has immediately impressed, claiming two victories, including a notable Feature Race win in Budapest. This consistent success and raw speed have paved the way for his Formula 1 debut with Mercedes.
George Russell, a graduate of the same Mercedes junior programme, will partner Antonelli, providing a strong blend of experience and speed. Russell’s journey mirrors Antonelli’s in many ways, having also risen through the Mercedes ranks. Now a proven Grand Prix winner, Russell has become a cornerstone of the team, demonstrating exceptional pace and consistency. His leadership within the team and his established position in Formula 1 will be invaluable as Mercedes enters this new era with Antonelli. The pairing of Russell and Antonelli represents a commitment to nurturing talent from within and building a formidable driver lineup for the future.
“It is incredible to be confirmed as a Mercedes works driver with George for 2025,” expressed Kimi Antonelli. “Formula 1 has been my dream since childhood, and I want to thank Mercedes for their unwavering support throughout my junior career. The faith they have placed in me is hugely motivating, and I feel ready for this opportunity. My focus will be on continuous improvement and contributing strongly to the team’s success.” Antonelli also highlighted his anticipation of partnering with Russell: “I’m really excited to team up with George. He is an exceptional driver, a multiple Grand Prix winner, and someone I deeply respect. Having come through the same programme, he’s already been a great influence in my development. I’m eager to learn from him and collaborate to achieve our on-track goals.”
