The question was asked by an F1 expert due to the decision by the Mercedes team boss to field an underwhelming rookie in place of outgoing seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton.
Leo Turrini has great confidence in the young compatriot, but also pointed out an interesting fact:
"Since Giancarlo Fisichella joined Renault, there hasn't been an Italian driver with a chance of winning a race. That's why I think it's a big deal that Kimi Antonelli could be on the starting line with Mercedes in 2025. Let's not forget that Mercedes won four races in 2024. I think we can rightfully consider them one of the favorites this season! At the same time, we shouldn't underestimate the fact that this puts even more pressure on Antonelli. He's a very young driver with absolutely no experience, who would have to immediately replace the legendary Lewis Hamilton. Is this madness or genius? Time will tell...
I think Antonelli is an exceptional talent, even though he's completely skipped F3 and has limited F2 experience. But everyone I've spoken to has confirmed: he's a talent who deserves a place in the F1 grid. The rest depends entirely on Mercedes. Will they give him enough time? Is Toto Wolff a true madman or an epic genius? Or does he just need Kimi Antonelli until Max Verstappen becomes available?" Turrini asked the big questions.
Photo: Gp Fans / XPB Images
