Toto Wolff believes Kimi Antonelli is on track to make a step forward in 2026 after an encouraging rookie campaign. Wolff maintains his belief in the 19-year-old’s potential after a stand-out drive to secure third place in Las Vegas.
Antonelli, like any rookie, has experienced a fair share of volatility in his debut campaign. The European leg of the calendar was especially challenging, with unforced errors and a lack of performance limiting the youngster.
Despite this, Antonelli is ending the season with a very solid string of performances.
From Toto Wolff’s perspective, the young Italian is setting a solid foundation to build upon for next season.
Wolff: Next year will be “completely different” for Antonelli
A considerable chunk of the year saw Mercedes and George Russell in extensive contract negotiations. Both parties were engaged in a stalemate as they discussed the fine details of the British driver’s contract.
Specifically, the point of contention was the duration of Russell’s extension. With Verstappen set to be available in the 2026 market, the 27-year-old pushed for specific exit clauses that would give him one layer of protection.
In the background to these talks was Kimi Antonelli, whose contract renewal was not announced until his teammate’s future was finalised.
This delay, however, was unrelated to the team’s belief in the 19-year-old. Mercedes have invested heavily in his career so far, and this year is already demonstrating why the German outfit rate Antonelli so highly.
Toto Wolff is pleased with the #12 car’s output, and anticipates better performances in 2026:
“He’s 19 years old, and we always said that the first season can be difficult. That’s what we’ve seen at times.
“He’s been parachuted in one of the big teams, hasn’t known many of the Grands Prix, and the pressure that comes upon him. And that’s what I expected in terms of trajectory – next year is going to be completely different.
“The cars are new for all the drivers [in 2026], not only for him. He’s been at the circuits… He’s going to be one year older and more mature, so it’s all according to plan at the moment.
“We’ve always said that we expected it to be full of ups and downs, a great moment of brilliance, and a moment where you want to tear your hair out.
“So, this is not the end of the development, this is still very early, very early stages, and I hope we’re going to see more from Kimi next year, more solid performances, and in the many years to come.”
Mercedes aim to set the tone in 2026
For all the speculation about Mercedes having a latent interest in Verstappen, the Silver Arrows already have a very strong line-up. Russell is widely seen as one of this year’s best drivers, whilst Antonelli has proven capable of fighting with the very best despite his limited experience.
At 28 and 19 years old, this driver combination is also an exciting one for the future. Next season could be the first big test for the Mercedes duo, with 2026 seen as a chance for Toto Wolff’s team to fight for the title.
Should the hype surrounding Mercedes come to fruition, it will give added importance to Antonelli’s progression.
On paper, Russell would still be title favourite if the German constructor have the best package in 2026. Still, Antonelli should not be written off. His rookie campaign certainly isn’t indicative of a driver content to be the number two.
Main photo: Sebastian Kawka (Mercedes Media Gallery)