Kimi Antonelli’s 2025 Formula 1 season is more than just a rookie campaign — it’s a defining chapter in what could be a remarkable career. Mercedes has placed immense trust in the 18-year-old Italian, signing him to a four-year contract with a guaranteed 2025 season. This approach stands in contrast to the short-term deals and rapid driver changes seen elsewhere on the grid, with some teams opting for five-race contracts or switching lineups after just a couple of race weekends — Mercedes is clearly playing the long game with Kimi Antonelli.
It’s reported that Antonelli’s contract will automatically extend through to 2028 depending on one key factor: Mercedes’ position in the Constructors’ Championship following the 12th race of the season — the British Grand Prix at Silverstone. Mercedes must be sitting 4th or higher in the Constructors’ standings for the extension to take effect, and with Mercedes currently sat third in the Constructors’ Championship, 105 points ahead of fifth-placed Williams, it’s looking likely — but these next three races could be make-or-break in Antonelli’s future.
Antonelli’s start to the season was nothing short of impressive. His fourth-place finish in Australia, recovering from a difficult qualifying, showcased his raw talent and determination in a race that saw none of the other rookies cross the finish line. Making up 12 places in a wet race that caught out even the most experienced driver in Fernando Alonso, was the perfect start. He followed that up with points finishes in China and Japan meaning he became the first rookie since Lewis Hamilton to score points in each of his first three races, demonstrating exceptional pace, maturity, and composure early on.
The recent European triple-header told a different story — one that highlighted harsh realities of Formula 1. In Imola and Barcelona, Antonelli was sidelined by car issues despite running in the points, halting his momentum. In Monaco, a mistake in qualifying left him well down the grid and out of contention before the lights went out. Three races, zero points — a stark reminder that talent alone isn’t enough in a sport where the whole team needs to come together for success.
He sits 7th in the Drivers’ Championship with 48 points, proof of the strong foundation he built early on, and the potential that’s still very much there. Antonelli will be eager to regain momentum and close the gap to the Ferrari’s — a target that holds significance for both his personal ambitions and the team’s collective goals. He can’t afford to walk away from the next three races without points. Getting back on track is about much more than salvaging his rookie season. Antonelli will be looking to prove he can respond to adversity, maintain consistency, and deliver points for the team when it matters most.
The British GP is a critical juncture half-way through the season, where Mercedes’ competitiveness will be measured against their competitors. The Constructors’ Championship standing reflects the combined efforts of both drivers and the car’s performance, meaning the teams reliability will be equally vital over the next three race. For Antonelli, this moment carries the weight of opportunity and consequence with a chance to cement his place as Mercedes’ F1 driver for the long-term.
Mercedes approach balances faith with pragmatism. The contract structure shows that while the team believes in Antonelli’s clear potential, they require clear evidence of progress at a team level. This clause protects their long-term strategy while providing Antonelli a clear incentive to deliver results at the most successful team in recent history.
As the season progresses, every point will count. Antonelli’s drive, resilience, and ability to bounce back will be tested. Silverstone is more than a race; it is the turning point that could solidify the future of one of Formula 1’s brightest young stars and shape the next era of Mercedes racing.
Do you think Antonelli will be racing with Mercedes next season?
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