imi Antonelli has opened up on the prospect of becoming a Formula 1 driver amid continued speculation linking him to Mercedes in 2025, with the teenager stating that he would take the opportunity “with eagerness” if offered while insisting that his focus remains on the current F2 campaign.
After Lewis Hamilton announced his surprise switch to Ferrari for next season back in February, there has been much focus on who will partner George Russell at the squad. Antonelli is one of the names that has been frequently mentioned amid the 17-year-old’s impressive rise through the motorsport ranks.
Currently competing in his debut Formula 2 season after bypassing F3, Antonelli caught the eye by winning the Italian F4 and ADAC F4 titles in 2022 and the Formula Regional Middle East and European Championships, earning him praise from the likes of Mercedes boss Toto Wolff.
However, with the Silver Arrows yet to confirm who will fill their vacancy in 2025, Antonelli is not getting ahead of himself when it comes to the possibility of stepping up to F1.
“I’m very happy to be considered, but I’m not asking for anything,” the Italian told Motorsport.com. “At the moment my goal is to do well in Formula 2, then we’ll see.
Antonelli currently sits in seventh place of the drivers’ standings in Formula 2, where he is racing for PREMA
“I still see it as a dream. Yes, I did happen to think about it, but it is a passing thought. In all honesty I can tell you that for me today it is still a dream. We’ll see if it comes true.”
Racing in Formula 1 would likely bring increased scrutiny on Antonelli – who is currently sitting in seventh place of the drivers’ standings in F2 – yet this is something that the young driver would not be overly concerned about.
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“Some degree of worry I think is always there, the prospect of not being able to perform I think frightens everyone,” Antonelli explained. “My approach is to see it as a great opportunity to learn, grow and also enjoy the moment.
“I’m not afraid of being judged, I know Mercedes has a clear opinion about my potential, already this season in F2 the championship didn’t kick off in the best way but there were no negative thoughts.
“I am quite calm, if the opportunity presented itself to me I would take it with eagerness and try to make the most of it.