George Russell says what he really thinks about his next Mercedes team-mate

23 May 2024 , 16:17

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George Russell has explained his feelings about his next Mercedes team-mate (Image: Getty Images)

George Russell voiced his approval of Mercedes "building into the future" with teenage racing star Andrea Kimi Antonelli.

The 17-year-old has emerged as a top candidate for the Mercedes seat which will be vacated by Lewis Hamilton at the end of this season. That's despite Antonelli still being in his first season at Formula 2 level, having skipped F3 altogether.

But the Italian has a remarkable record in other junior racing categories. Team principal Toto Wolff is a huge fan and Hamilton himself last week publicly endorsed the teenager as the driver he would like to see replace him when he leaves for Ferrari.

Quizzed about his feelings on the matter, Russell made it clear he does not mind who he is paired with once Hamilton exits. But he praised the idea of promoting Antonelli who, like he used to be, is a member of the Mercedes junior driver programme.

Russell said: "I think Kimi is a fantastic driver. Obviously, he's racing in Formula 2 this year but he's no doubt going to be an F1 driver in the future. He's a fellow junior driver as well, coming through the ranks as I did with the team.

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"I think it makes for a great opportunity for Mercedes to build into the future but as I said before, I welcome anybody as my team-mate. I feel like I have a pretty good team-mate right now as it is. I welcome anybody."

Mercedes will not rush into a decision over who will take Hamilton's seat for next year. Plenty have been linked with the vacancy besides Antonelli, including Carlos Sainz who will leave Ferrari at the end of this season, released to make room for the seven-time F1 champion.

Andrea Kimi Antonelli is a front-runner for a Mercedes F1 seat next season (PA)

But it is understood that Sainz is not a front-runner for the seat. And, speaking to reporters including Mirror Sport at Imola last week, Hamilton made it clear that he wants Antonelli, who turns 18 in August, to be given the chance to shine alongside Russell.

He said: "I think Carlos is a great driver, so wherever he goes he would be a positive for any team. Honestly, I have no idea what Toto's plans are but, for me, taking on a youngster would be [the right move]. If it was my job, my role, I'd probably take on Kimi."

An alternative plan could see Mercedes sign a short-term option for a season or two while Antonelli gains experience on loan at another team. Williams are keen on such an arrangement and are considering their options to replace the struggling Logan Sargeant.

Daniel Moxon