Toto Wolff has opened up about Kimi Antonelli (Image: Getty)
has already ruled out from challenging for pole position in the first Formula One race of the season.
Antonelli is being ushered in as ’s replacement after the seven-time world champion departed for at the end of the 2025 season.
It’s quite the shake-up for the Silver Arrows, given they’re switching from one of the grid’s most experienced operators to a teenager with next to no Formula One experience.
And the head honcho has fired a warning to anyone expecting Antonelli to be fighting for race wins in his first full campaign behind the wheel.
Commenting on the 18-year-old’s prospects, Wolff told : “If you expect him to be on pole position in Melbourne, win the race and immediately compete for the championship, then the risk is high because that won’t happen.
“If we take the approach that the boy is 18 years old, very talented, but of course has to grow into it first and will make mistakes, then the risk is limited. That’s why we’re doing it. We see 2025 as a transition year and want to prepare him for 2026.”
On the hype that’s surrounded Antonelli so far, he added: “He will only be a child prodigy when he actually performs in Formula One. We hope it will happen sooner rather than later, but certainly not right at the beginning.”
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Kimi Antonelli will be in the Mercedes paddock full-time in 2025 (Image: Getty)
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It comes after Antonelli was spotted driving the 2020 W11 F1 car ahead of the 2025 season.
The Bologna-born ace has been tipped to make a splash in Formula One for a number of years and reacting after being announced as Hamilton’s replacement, Antonelli dubbed it a ‘dream come true’.
: “It is an amazing feeling to be announced as a works driver alongside George for 2025.
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“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.”
There’s not too long for Antonelli to wait until he debuts as a driver with the first race weekend from Australia coming in mid-March.