The question was raised by an F1 journalist, following the decision that the Mercedes team principal has appointed a not very convincing rookie to replace the departing seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton.
Leo Turrini is very hopeful about the young compatriot, while also pointing out an interesting fact:
“Since Giancarlo Fisichella's time with Renault, we haven't had an Italian driver with a chance of winning a race. Therefore, I consider it a big deal that Kimi Antonelli could be on the grid with Mercedes in 2025. Let's not forget that Mercedes won four races in 2024. I think we can rightly see them as one of the contenders for this season! At the same time, we must not underestimate that this puts even more pressure on Antonelli. He is a very young driver with absolutely zero experience, who is expected to immediately fill the shoes of the legendary Lewis Hamilton. Is this madness or genius? Time will tell…
I believe that Antonelli is an extraordinary talent, despite the fact that he completely skipped F3 and has only limited experience from F2. However, everyone I spoke to confirmed: he is a talent who deserves a place in the F1 field. The rest depends on Mercedes. Will they give him enough time? Is Toto Wolff a true madman or a genius of a generation? Or does he just need Kimi Antonelli until Max Verstappen is freed up?” - posed the big questions Turrini.
Photo: Gp Fans / XPB Images
