Mercedes have signed Kimi Antonelli as George Russell’s team mate for 2025, with the Italian stepping up from F2 to replace Lewis Hamiltonm, reports F1.com

18 year old Antonelli has had a stellar junior career, rapidly rising through the ranks. After winning the ADAC and Italian F4 titles in 2022 and Formula Regional European Championship in 2023, the Mercedes junior skipped F3 and entered F2 with PREMA this season.

"It is an amazing feeling to be announced as a Mercedes works driver alongside George for 2025, - said Antonelli. - Reaching F1 is a dream I’ve had since I was a small boy; I want to thank the team for the support they’ve given me in my career so far and the faith they’ve shown in me. I am still learning a lot, but I feel ready for the opportunity. I will be focused on getting better and delivering the best possible results for the team".