Kimi Antonelli is recognized as a promising driver in Formula 1, yet former Grand Prix winner Ralf Schumacher believes he is not the sport’s next Max Verstappen. This assessment came midway through the rookie season of the young Italian, who currently races for Mercedes. Schumacher acknowledged Antonelli’s talent but emphasized the significant experience gap and the challenges posed by the team’s complex car.
Antonelli’s rapid rise through the junior categories earned him a seat at Mercedes for the 2025 season, replacing Lewis Hamilton and partnering with George Russell. Early in the year, he consistently scored points, demonstrating notable skill. However, difficulties soon followed after Mercedes introduced a rear-suspension upgrade that negatively affected the car’s performance. Although the team reversed the change before the Hungarian Grand Prix, where Antonelli earned a point, consistency remains elusive.
Comparisons and Expectations From Key Figures
Before Antonelli entered Formula 1, Nico Rosberg, Mercedes’ 2016 World Champion, compared him favorably to Verstappen, citing his exceptional talent from karting days. On Sky F1 in 2024, Rosberg described Antonelli as “phenomenal” and stated,
“He’s Max Verstappen-level. It’s really unbelievable.”
Despite this endorsement, Ralf Schumacher remains cautious.
Schumacher points out that Antonelli has struggled with the Mercedes W16 car, which is notably complex and demanding for a rookie. He said,
“I do believe that Kimi is a strong racing driver, but he simply needs time,”
and added,
“I wouldn’t describe him as the next Max Verstappen.”
He highlighted Antonelli’s rapid promotion through junior ranks has meant he has less experience than other drivers who have spent more time adapting and learning.
Performance Rivalry with George Russell During the 2025 Season
This season has featured a head-to-head contest between Mercedes teammates George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, with qualifying and race comparisons drawing attention. Russell’s greater experience, including multiple Grand Prix wins over six-plus seasons, gives him an advantage in managing Mercedes’ current struggles. Despite this, Antonelli’s potential has been evident, showing flashes of strong pace on more than one occasion.
Understanding the Learning Curve for Young Drivers in F1
Antonelli’s rookie year has been inconsistent but shows promise. Racing in Formula 1 at 18, he has already secured a podium finish, a commendable feat given the pressure and high competition level. Yet, it’s clear that expectations must be tempered by his youth and limited experience.
The Canadian Grand Prix stands out as an example of Antonelli’s ability, where he joined Russell on the podium despite Mercedes’ challenging phase. This demonstrates the skill beneath the surface, reinforcing the belief that time will be essential for his development.
An instructive comparison is with Oscar Piastri, another highly talented driver with multiple junior titles, now at McLaren. Piastri’s initial two seasons served as crucial growth periods behind the more experienced Lando Norris, before emerging as a championship contender in his third year. This progression underlines the importance of patience and gradual experience accumulation for young F1 drivers like Antonelli.
The Road Ahead for Kimi Antonelli’s Future in Formula 1
Ralf Schumacher and other experts agree that while Antonelli is not yet at Verstappen’s level, he shows a strong foundation to build upon. The complexities of modern Formula 1 machinery and the intense competitiveness of the grid require time to master. Antonelli’s future in F1 hinges on gaining this experience, with potential to grow into a top-tier driver.
Mercedes’ decision to bring him into a leading team so early reflects confidence in his talent, but it also acknowledges the risks involved in fast-tracking young drivers. As his career develops, the hope remains that Antonelli will harness his potential, learn from setbacks, and convert raw speed into consistent results.
