Russell to mirror Hamilton with ‘formidable’ Antonelli

George Russell has highlighted his desire to play a mentoring role for Andrea Kimi Antonelli during the 2025 F1 season.

Antonelli will join Mercedes next year alongside Russell, replacing seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton who will depart for Ferrari.

After three years at Williams, Russell joined Mercedes in 2022 alongside Hamilton, who led the team with his vast F1 experience.

Russell now becomes the effective team leader with rookie Antonelli alongside him, and is looking to conduct himself in similar fashion to Hamilton upon his own arrival at Mercedes.

“I'm really excited to be partnering with Kimi for 2025,” Russell said. “His record in junior formula has been formidable and his promotion is truly deserved. 

“He's a fantastic young talent and a fellow graduate of our junior programme. I look forward to using the experience I've gained from my own journey to provide guidance to Kimi as he makes the step up to F1. 

“I know how much of a support Lewis was for me throughout my time as a junior driver and since I've been his team-mate. I've learned so much from him and I hope to play a similar role for Kimi.”

Russell, Antonelli to 'push' Mercedes

Mercedes slipped back in the pecking order when new regulations were introduced in 2022, having previously enjoyed a streak of championship success.

It recently regained its front-running F1 form and has won multiple races this year.

As it looks to make further gains for next season, Russell has backed Antonelli to assist in pushing Mercedes back to title-contending form.

"As a team, we're building a lot of positive momentum heading into next year,” he said.

“We continue to make progress on track and are working hard to put all the pieces in place to fight for world championships. 

“It is a really exciting journey we are on; I am confident Kimi and I can continue to push the team forward and help deliver on the promise we are showing.”