Antonelli's Impressive Victory Showcases Potential Future in Formula Racing

Italian Teen Sensation Andrea Kimi Antonelli 's Uncertain Future in Formula Racing

Italian teen sensation Andrea Kimi Antonelli , who has been tipped as Lewis Hamilton 's replacement at Mercedes , is not sure he 's ready to make the move to Formula One yet . After winning the F2 feature race ahead of Sunday 's Hungarian Grand Prix , Antonelli suggested the timing feels premature . " I mean ... I do n't know if I will be ready , to be honest , " he said at the Hungaroring.

Antonelli 's Impressive Victory in Budapest Feature Race

Andrea Kimi Antonelli put in a stunning late charge through the field to take his first Feature Race victory of the season in an exciting Budapest Feature Race . The PREMA Racing rookie took advantage of a late Safety Car that allowed him to put on the Softs and fight through from fifth to take the victory , leading ART Grand Prix driver Victor Martins in second across the line with Tridents Richard Verschoor in P3 . The Italian was in good form , building up a lead of over three seconds to Verschoor by Lap 13 . Just behind , Martins , now on the better tire in P4 and putting pressure on Maini.

Wolff 's Determination to Promote Antonelli to Formula One

Team boss Toto Wolff is open to the idea of promoting the teenager when Hamilton departs for Ferrari next year . Wolff 's determination to promote Antonelli can be seen in a few different ways . Mercedes has been in no rush to confirm Hamilton 's replacement . Some have suggested Wolff does not want to lose Antonelli like he lost out on Verstappen . However , Antonelli is already signed to a Mercedes development deal beyond this year , so his immediate future is tied down to the German manufacturer regardless of what he 's doing in 2025.

Antonelli 's Potential Future in Formula One

Several sources have suggested that the original plan was for Antonelli to drive at Mercedes customer Williams in 2025 while Hamilton and George Russell continued . Hamilton 's departure changed all of Wolff 's plans and left him with a seat to fill and no obviously available candidates beyond Carlos Sainz to fill it . Antonelli 's victory in the Budapest Feature Race showcases his potential and talent in Formula Racing , leaving fans eagerly awaiting his future in the sport.