Kimi Antonelli remains focused on performance and growth rather than the speculation surrounding Mercedes’ 2026 driver line-up, as the rookie continues to settle into his debut Formula 1 campaign. Despite Mercedes having confirmed neither he nor team-mate George Russell beyond this season, the 18-year-old Italian remains calm and committed to maximising his development.
Having replaced seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton at the start of 2025, Antonelli has already made an impression in his rookie year with highlights including Sprint pole in Miami and a maiden podium finish in Canada. However, his name continues to be part of the wider narrative involving Mercedes’ future, with ongoing rumours linking Max Verstappen to a potential seat with the Silver Arrows.
Antonelli focused on performance despite rumours
Amid growing speculation and media scrutiny, Antonelli explained that his approach remains firmly rooted in delivering results on track.
“I am not really worried about myself, I am just trying to focus as much as possible on what I have to do to deliver the best performance as possible,” he said. “I think the team has given me a lot of trust and is still doing so, and they are also giving me time to grow.”
“On my side, I think last weekend was not the best, but at the same time I am really trying to work on my weak points, to try and reduce the [number] of mistakes.”
Antonelli’s composed and mature outlook has been evident throughout the season, and he reiterated that outside chatter will not distract him from his objectives.
“Of course, there is a lot going on and a lot of talks, but at the end of the day, I am just trying to focus on myself and deliver the best job as possible.”
Respect after Austria incident with Verstappen
One of the major talking points following the 2025 F1 Austrian GP was Antonelli’s collision with Max Verstappen, which saw the Dutchman retire from the race on the opening lap. The Italian accepted responsibility for the incident and immediately sought out Verstappen afterwards to apologise.
“To be honest, I was not really thinking about that,” Antonelli said when asked if the apology had anything to do with a possible future as Verstappen’s team-mate. “I think it was just a way to show respect and to also… I acknowledge straight away that I did a mistake and obviously it was on me.”
Antonelli continued, “I was sorry towards my team as well, because finishing a race on Lap 1 is never good, but also I took out Max, which was obviously not the plan. It was not on purpose and I just felt sorry towards him as well.”
The post-race exchange between the two drivers appeared respectful and composed, with Antonelli revealing that Verstappen responded with understanding.
“Definitely I went to apologise to show respect and that I was sorry about what happened, but he was very nice towards me as well – he was very open and he understood my message.”
Looking ahead to Silverstone with optimism
Now approaching the halfway point of his first F1 season at Mercedes, Antonelli is eager to bounce back at the 2025 F1 British GP at Silverstone – a track that carries special memories for the Italian, having taken his maiden F2 victory there just one year ago.
“I am very excited ahead of this weekend,” he commented, continuing, “I think Silverstone is always a very special one because the atmosphere is just incredible.”
“I think it is a good weekend to bounce back, especially after the difficult race in Austria, so I am very excited to hit the track tomorrow and see what we are going to be able to do.”
With Mercedes working to close the gap to Red Bull and McLaren in 2025, Antonelli’s calm, methodical approach continues to earn him support within the team. Whether Mercedes confirms his 2026 contract soon or not, the teenager is staying grounded, working hard to improve, and letting his on-track performance do the talking.
