Russell declares Antonelli is ‘destined to be a Formula 1 driver’ as youngster reminds him of his own journey

George Russell believes that the journey of Mercedes protégé Kimi Antonelli reminds him of his own path to Formula 1, with the Briton praising the youngster who is favourite to drive alongside him next season.

Following this year’s shock revelation that seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton will join Ferrari in 2025, focus shifted as to who could replace him at Mercedes. While experienced names were linked with the seat, Antonelli's quick rise up the ranks immediately saw him enter the conversation despite his tender years.

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The Formula 2 driver only turned 18 over the Dutch Grand Prix weekend but he has been widely recognised as the most likely candidate to replace Hamilton, although Mercedes are yet to issue any formal confirmation of their decision.

Antonelli will make his F1 debut this weekend, as he takes part in FP1 at his home race in Monza, partly fulfilling one of the two rookie outings teams are required to fulfil each season.

Asked at Zandvoort whether he was ready to welcome Antonelli to the team, Russell said: “I think whoever's going to be my team mate next year, of course, we'll welcome them. And excited for the challenge together.

“Kimi's an exceptional driver, such an amazing track record. In his junior series, always destined to be a Formula 1 driver.

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“If it were to be him, I think it sort of shows the strength also of the Mercedes junior program and reminds me a bit of my journey, starting off as a young kid, walking through the doors in Formula 3 and climbing the ladder. And it would be a great story for the team, but who knows?"

The vacant Mercedes seat has been a hot topic of conversation, especially as the team continue to find their feet across this season. Their remarkable run of form before the summer break saw them claim six podiums in just as many races, including three victories.

Their pace appeared to inexplicably fall away in Zandvoort, but they are still considered to be one of the top teams on the grid, and a superb outfit for Antonelli to potentially make his debut with.

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Russell also revealed that he has been following the Italian’s season in F2, where he has taken victory in the Silverstone Sprint and the Hungary Feature Race.

“We always keep a close eye on how he's getting on, watching all of the races,” Russell said. “We did a test together in Silverstone a couple of months ago, so that was a great opportunity for him to get behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car.

“He was exceptionally fast, so I'm sure if he were to get a drive in Formula 1, I'm sure he'd do a great job.”