The question was asked by an F1 writer, following the decision by the Mercedes team principal to replace the outgoing seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton with an unconvincing rookie.
Leo Turrini has great confidence in his young compatriot, but at the same time he also drew attention to an interesting fact:
“Since Giancarlo Fisichella’s Renault, we haven’t had an Italian driver who had a chance of winning a race. That’s why I think it’s a great thing that Kimi Antonelli will be on the grid with Mercedes in 2025. Let’s not forget that Mercedes won four races in 2024. I think we can rightly consider them as one of the contenders this season! However, we shouldn’t underestimate the fact that this puts even more pressure on Antonelli. He is a very young driver with absolutely zero experience, who should immediately replace the legendary Lewis Hamilton. Is this madness or genius? Time will tell…
"I think Antonelli is an extraordinary talent, despite the fact that he completely missed out on F3 and has only limited experience in F2. However, everyone I spoke to confirmed that he is a talent who has a place in the F1 field. The rest is up to Mercedes. Will they give him enough time? Is Toto Wolff a real madman or a genius of his time? Or does he only need Kimi Antonelli until Max Verstappen is released?" Turrini asked the big questions.
Photo: Gp Fans / XPB Images
