“I’m really excited to be partnering with Kimi for 2025. His record in junior formula has been formidable and his promotion is truly deserved,” Russell said in a statement. “I know how much of a support Lewis was for me throughout my time as a junior driver and since I’ve been his teammate. I’ve learned so much from him and I hope to play a similar role for Kimi.” Kimi Antonelli, 18, has signed with Mercedes to replace Lewis Hamilton in the upcoming Formula One racing team.
Mercedes F1 chief Toto Wolff said Russell and Antonelli were the appropriate line-up for the team to begin its next chapter.
“Kimi has consistently shown the talent and speed needed to compete at the very top of our sport,” he said.
“We know it will be another big step up, but he has impressed us in his F1 testing this year … in George, he has an experienced teammate from (whom) he can learn and hone his craft”.
Russell is eighth in the standings ahead of the Italian Grand Prix in Monza, while Hamilton is sixth.
