Formula 2 commentator Alex Jacques believes that putting Andrea Kimi Antonelli into a Mercedes 2025 seat, even if he clinches the F2 title, poses considerable risk.
However, former F1 driver Jolyon Palmer urges Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff to “take the punt”.
With Lewis Hamilton joining Ferrari for the 2025 season, Wolff faces a significant decision regarding his successor as George Russell’s teammate.
While established Formula 1 racers like Fernando Alonso, Carlos Sainz, Alex Albon, and Esteban Ocon are linked with the vacant seat, there’s speculation about Mercedes promoting their promising junior, Antonelli.
READ: Red Bull and Ferrari brace for battle
Antonelli, a member of the Mercedes Junior Team, has made significant strides in the junior circuit.
After winning the 2023 Formula Regional European Championship, the 17-year-old skipped Formula 3 and is gearing up for a Formula 2 campaign with Prema.
During pre-season testing, Jacques stressed the importance of assessing Antonelli’s performance in F2 before considering him for the Mercedes seat.
He suggests following the Russell or Leclerc route, allowing Antonelli to gain experience before joining the top tier.
However, Jacques acknowledges Antonelli’s talent, stating, “He’s incredibly highly-rated.”
Palmer supports the idea of promoting Antonelli if he wins the 2024 F2 title, despite the pressure associated with a direct leap to Mercedes.
He suggests that a year at Mercedes before the new regulations in 2026 could be beneficial for Antonelli’s development.
Both Jacques and Palmer agree that performance should determine readiness for Formula 1.
READ: Red Bull and Ferrari brace for battle
Formula 1 presenter Will Buxton echoes this sentiment, stating that readiness should be based on skill rather than time spent in lower categories.
Wolff has hinted at making bold choices for driver signings, leaving the door open for Antonelli if he proves himself in F2.
The F2 season-opener coincides with F1’s Bahrain Grand Prix, providing an opportunity to assess Antonelli’s potential on the track.