The Mercedes F1 launch took place today, with the British team revealing their W16 E for the 2025 season.
Mercedes-AMG F1 W16 takes the Silver Arrows into a new era. For the first time in twelve seasons of Formula 1, the British team, will be starting the season without Lewis Hamilton. Instead they will rely on the partnership of rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli and the experience of George Russell.
F1 fans have had the chance to see the Mercedes livery since last week’s F1 75 season launch. The livery, which is largely consistent with the 2024 model, has a few small changes that have had fans pondering.
One of the most striking aspects of the Mercedes 2025 car is the lack of INEOS branding. Whilst it still features on the front wing of the car, many fans were questioning what this could mean for the team’s partnership. However, Toto Wolff shut down rumours instantly.
The car is also technically vastly different to its predecessor, the aerodynamic philosophy having been substantially overhauled.
Mercedes Drivers share their thoughts on the upcoming season
Russell aims to improve on what he called his best season in F1, while helping to coach Antonelli through his first campaign.
I feel like last year was my strongest in F1,” Russell said.“This coming season will be my seventh in the sport, and fourth with the works Mercedes team, and I’m working hard to improve year-on-year.
“As a team, we are incredibly motivated to improve on last season. There is a great energy within the factories at Brackley and Brixworth so I’m eager to take to the track.
“It’s also exciting having a new team-mate in Kimi this year. He’s incredibly quick and I think we will make a great partnership. Naturally, there is a lot for him to learn in his first season but I’m looking forward to helping him do that and working together to help push the team forward.”
Antonelli spoke of his excitement to start his first season in F1 in one of the most coveted seats on the grid.
“I’m excited to make my debut in F1 this year,” he said. “It is a great opportunity, and I am very thankful to everyone at Mercedes for the faith and trust they’ve placed in me. I’ve been working really hard over the winter to be as ready as I can possibly be and now, I can’t wait to get started.
“My focus is on continuing to learn, being consistent, and doing the best job I can for the team. I’m looking forward to working with George; we’re already gelling well and it’s great to have the support of someone who has come through the junior programme too. “He is an incredibly strong driver and together I think we will make a great duo”.
Valtteri Bottas returns to Mercedes after a stint at Sauber, now as Third Driver. He confirmed his ambition to help the team move forward.
“I couldn’t be happier to be back with Mercedes. It feels like I’m home. It’s been great to catch up with former colleagues and I’m really looking forward to helping the team both on and off the track. As Third Driver, I will be at every Grand Prix providing support and that extra set of eyes. I will also be at the factory helping develop the car in the simulator too. I can’t wait to get started.”
Toto Wolff has his say on Mercedes’ new era
Team Principal Toto Wolff spoke of the objectives for 2025, including supporting Antonelli through his first season.
“We open an exciting new era in the story of our team and Mercedes-AMG motorsport in 2025. We are building on the incredible legacy of our heritage, and we can’t wait to go racing,” he said.
“Everyone at the team, in Brackley and Brixworth, has been hard at work over the winter. Last season was incredibly competitive on the track and, whilst we took several wins, we are all focused on challenging for victories more consistently.
“We have made gains in the off-season, but we will only know where we stand come the first race in Australia.”
“We have an exciting line-up to help us achieve our objectives. Both drivers have progressed through our junior programme and that is a vindication of our commitment to both supporting and developing talent.
“George has proven that he is one of the very best drivers on the grid, capable of competing for the Drivers’ Championship if we can give him a car capable of doing so. “As the senior driver, he will help lead the team forward and support Kimi in his development.
“Kimi has all the necessary talent to achieve great things at the pinnacle of the sport, but this is a rookie season and there will inevitably be ups and downs. We’re looking forward to that journey together though and helping him develop over the course of the year.”
Wolff said the season is likely to be “ultra-competitive” and targeted championship wins for 2025.
“It is going to be a highly competitive season. We saw last year just how close the field was. You couldn’t say race-to-race who would be at the front, and I expect this year to be even closer. We will have to be at our very best if we want to challenge for championships this season.”
The Mercedes team will be in action this week when F1 returns to screens with pre-season testing.
Feature Image Credit: Mercedes Benz Archive
