Mercedes is exploring ways to improve the W16 car after Kimi Antonelli’s ongoing struggles during the 2025 Formula 1 season, aiming to reverse the young driver’s fortunes. Antonelli, currently seventh in the drivers’ standings, has faced significant performance challenges compared to teammate George Russell, especially in recent races like the Belgian Grand Prix.
Through the first 13 rounds of the season, Antonelli has accumulated just 63 points, a figure well below expectations considering his teammate’s higher ranking. At the Belgian Grand Prix, Antonelli finished down in 16th place, further highlighting the difficulties the rookie has endured in extracting the car’s full potential.
Mercedes Technical Director Discusses Path to Performance Improvement
James Allison, Mercedes’ technical director, has acknowledged the W16’s setbacks and how these have affected both Antonelli and Russell. Allison emphasized that the team has taken incorrect development steps, which have made the car less competitive overall, and that the drivers are paying the price for these issues.
“We tell him and it’s demonstrably a fact that we have taken the wrong steps with the car making our team less competitive and that he’s paying the price for that, as is George. It’s utterly clear to all of us that the thing we need to do is make the car better, and then Kimi’s fortunes will reverse with that, and hopefully he’s listening to us as we say those reassuring words, because we absolutely know that he is putting in the effort on his side of that bargain.”
—James Allison, Mercedes Technical Director
Allison’s statement highlights Mercedes’ confidence that resolving the car’s shortcomings will help Antonelli regain confidence and improve results. The team acknowledges Antonelli’s commitment despite the struggles he has faced in his rookie season, contrasting his difficulties with Russell’s stronger form in the same machinery.
Support from Lewis Hamilton in Face of Early Challenges
Kimi Antonelli has been under intense pressure as he attempts to fill the significant void left by Lewis Hamilton, who departed Mercedes to join Ferrari at the end of 2024. Hamilton’s move opened the door for Antonelli, but the transition has proven difficult for the 18-year-old rookie facing the high demands of Formula 1.
Recently, Hamilton publicly defended Antonelli’s efforts and resilience amid his challenging debut season. Speaking to Sky F1, Hamilton expressed admiration for the young driver’s adaptation to F1 at such a young age.
“I can’t imagine what it’s like at 18, or try to imagine what it’s like at 18 to do what he’s been doing. I think he’s been doing fantastic to be thrown in at the deep end at 18. He didn’t even have his driving licence when he started racing, so I think it’s a lot on someone’s shoulders and I think he’s doing a great job.”
—Lewis Hamilton, Seven-time World Champion
Hamilton’s support emphasizes the understanding within the motorsport community of the pressures facing Antonelli and highlights the patience needed as he adjusts to Formula 1’s top tier.
Contract Uncertainties as Summer Break Approaches
Both Kimi Antonelli and George Russell have yet to finalize their contracts with Mercedes, adding a layer of uncertainty to the team‘s driver lineup beyond the current season. With the summer break arriving after the Hungarian Grand Prix, many anticipate announcements regarding Mercedes’ plans for the 2026 season and beyond.
The upcoming pause in the racing calendar may provide Mercedes with time to review driver performances alongside planned car developments. Improvements to the W16 will be critical for both Antonelli and Russell as the team looks to solidify its competitive edge and address the uneven performance between its two drivers.
As Mercedes works to address the technical challenges with the W16, Antonelli’s ability to capitalize on these fixes will shape his trajectory in Formula 1. A turnaround in his results could signal a significant shift in his career, impacting both his standing within the team and his potential long-term success.