Lewis Hamilton, George Russell and Kimi Antonelli (Credits-Getty)
Mercedes driver George Russell cited his example of beating Lewis Hamilton in the 2022 season as an example of what Kimi Antonelli could achieve in his rookie season at the German team next year. The 18-year-old Italian driver will join the Brackley-based outfit to replace the seven-time F1 world champion, who is leaving the team to join Ferrari in 2025.
For the first time since entering the sport in 2010, Mercedes would have both their academy drivers in the main seat with Russell and Antonelli. The F2 driver, having been fast-tracked by team principal Toto Wolff, carries significant expectations due to his impressive junior career and early promotion to a permanent seat.
Speaking with Sky Sports, George Russell was confident that Kimi Antonelli would thrive in his rookie season with Mercedes and believed that Wolff had shown faith in the Italian's abilities. While comparing his first season with the German team to the Italian driver's, he said:
