It seemed like everything was done for Andrea Antonelli and, instead, comes the sudden stop: sensational twist in Formula 1
There has been much talk in recent days about the possibility that the Italian rider Andrea Kimi Antonelli can, very soon, do his thing debut in Formula 1.
There is certainly no lack of talent, so much so that Antonelli, from the Mercedes school, is accredited as Lewis Hamilton’s possible heir driving one of the ‘Silver Arrows’ in 2025, when the seven-time world champion moves to Ferrari.
In his debut season in Formula 2 after having made the leap from Formula Regional and without having passed through F3, Kimi Antonelli, who will turn 18 next August, was recently at the center of an official communication from the FIA which has already granted a vital exemption for a potential underage debut in F1.
Antonelli, abrupt stop: Toto Wolff’s statements
In fact, it has been rumored for some time that Antonelli could take part in a free practice session already this season. Toto Wolff spoke precisely about this on the eve of the Spanish GP. The Mercedes team principal wanted to temper expectations about Antonelli with truly unexpected statements.
“It doesn’t mean anything“, said Wolff referring to the exemption which according to him would not change anything for Antonelli’s future. “I think the FIA has taken a position on not having a hard limit on a certain age, because some young people could debut earlier if they were at the center of exceptional success“.
The Austrian manager then had his say on the FIA’s choice, aimed at underage drivers. It is impossible, however, not to think that everything is projected above all on Antonelli: “It wasn’t a question of authorizing Antonelli – he precised – but to change something in the regulations, at the discretion of the FIA president. It makes no difference to us.”
In conclusion, Wolff closed each discussion by analyzing the recent path taken by the Italian driver. “He’s doing F2 and testing with the old cars, he’s learning, developing and making mistakes. This is the reality of the facts at the moment, no need to put it on a car“.
Clearer than that. Wolff’s statements are prudent compared to what was revealed two weeks ago when he effectively announced the arrival of Antonelli, precluding the remaining possibilities of hiring Sainz.
