As more and more drivers renew their contracts or switch to rival teams, Mercedes still hasn’t secured a second driver for 2025. Top drivers like Carlos Sainz seem to be up for grabs, but all signs point to the German racing team placing their trust in Andrea Kimi Antonelli. According to Jacques Villeneuve, signing the young Italian is a matter of ego.
Villeneuve served as an analyst during the Canadian Grand Prix. The former world champion used the platform to critically examine the current state of Formula 1. He not only incurred the wrath of Daniel Ricciardo, but also attempted to explain the contract negotiations of Carlos Sainz. On paper, there is only one top team that can accommodate the Spaniard in the coming years – why hasn’t he signed a contract with Mercedes yet?
READ ALSO: Ricciardo dismisses Villeneuve’s criticism: ‘He always spouts nonsense’
Mercedes Not an Option, Says Villeneuve
“Mercedes is not an option,” states Villeneuve. “That’s the team of [Andrea Kimi] Antonelli. He is the future there.” The 17-year-old Antonelli made his debut this year with PREMA in Formula 2, but has already successfully tested twice for Mercedes. Many experts anticipate that the young Italian will move up to the premier class next year. Villeneuve also believes that Antonelli is the only contender in Brackley.
Toto Wolff’s Ego
“Toto Wolff doesn’t want anyone else,” the former world champion continues. “There’s a bit of ego involved. [Wolff] wants to prove that he made a good choice by signing Antonelli at the age of twelve.”
In a conversation with the German branch of Sky Sports, Wolff confirmed that the young Italian is a priority for Mercedes. “We are focusing on Antonelli,” says the team boss. “He is our future. We simply want to work with young drivers. We have also told this to Carlos (Sainz).”
READ ALSO: Antonelli impressed Mercedes in second test: ‘He is the real deal’
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