Russell keen to be Hamilton-like mentor to Antonelli

George Russell wants to replicate the role Lewis Hamilton played in his development when it comes to partnering Andrea Kimi Antonelli in 2025. Antonelli will become Russell’s teammate at Mercedes next season, with the team confirming the Italian’s promotion following his first FP1 outing at Monza. Both of the Mercedes’ 2025 drivers came through its young driver program, and Russell says the way Hamilton helped him develop as a young driver is something he is hoping to also do for 18-year-old Antonelli. “I’m really excited to be partnering with Kimi for 2025,” Russell said. “His record in junior formulae has been formidable and his promotion is truly deserved. He’s a fantastic young talent and a fellow graduate of our junior program. “I look forward to using the experience I’ve gained from my own journey to provide guidance to Kimi as he makes the step up to F1. I know how much of a support Lewis was for me throughout my time as a junior driver and since I’ve been his teammate. I’ve learned so much from him and I hope to play a similar role for Kimi. “As a team, we’re building a lot of positive momentum heading into next year. We continue to make progress on track and are working hard to put all the pieces in place to fight for world championships. It is a really exciting journey we are on; I am confident Kimi and I can continue to push the team forward and help deliver on the promise we are showing.” Antonelli himself says he is similarly keen to learn from Russell, as he admits he will have a lot of developing to do in his rookie Formula 1 season having only been racing in FRECA last year. “It is an amazing feeling to be announced as a Mercedes works driver alongside George for 2025,” Antonelli said. “Reaching F1 is a dream I’ve had since I was a small boy; I want to thank the team for the support they’ve given me in my career so far and the faith they’ve shown in me. I am still learning a lot, but I feel ready for the opportunity. I will be focused on getting better and delivering the best possible results for the team. “I’m also really excited to become George’s teammate. He came through the team’s junior program just like myself and is someone I have a huge amount of respect for. He is super-fast, a multiple Grand Prix winner, and has already helped me improve as a driver. I am looking forward to learning from him and working together to deliver on track.”