George Russell spoke about Andrea Kimi Antonelli in an interview with F1.com.
2025 will mark the “year zero” for Mercedes (perhaps the second after the regulation change), with Lewis Hamilton moving to Ferrari and Andrea Kimi Antonelli replacing him. The 2006-born driver will team up with George Russell for a lineup that promises to be both young and exciting.
In an interview with F1.com, the British driver George Russell spoke about his new teammate, offering some significant words. These were his statements: “I’ve always thought that with experience, you gain a lot over time in terms of managing the weekend, the tires, and the team. But I don’t think I’m faster today in dry conditions compared to when I was 17.
Speed is something you either have or you don’t, and Kimi absolutely has it. There will be mistakes along the way, as happens to everyone. Every single driver has made mistakes in their first two years, and it will be more noticeable for those at the front of the pack, but Kimi is exceptionally fast.”
These are words of deep respect from George Russell, winner of the Austrian Grand Prix. Antonelli, for his part, has already had the opportunity to test the W15 this season, with free practice sessions in Monza (which ended after a few minutes due to an accident) and in Mexico.
Next season, by necessity, will be completely different, as Russell’s words testify: “Kimi is exceptionally fast, and I have no doubt that next year he’ll keep me on my toes, and I can’t wait to face this new challenge. Three years of working with Lewis have been amazing, but I’m excited to see what we can achieve together starting next year.”
Photo: X Mercedes AMG F1