Driver decision

Rosberg advises Wolff to be patient: “It’s still too early”

Toto Wolff (left) and Nico Rosberg celebrated the world championship title together in 2016.(Bild: AFP/ JOE KLAMAR / AFP)

Former Formula 1 world champion Nico Rosberg has advised Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff to be patient regarding the future of "child prodigy" Andrea Kimi Antonelli. The 17-year-old recently applied for a super license so that he can drive in the premier class before his 18th birthday. The German warns that the Italian would benefit from a little more experience. 

"Antonelli is definitely a superstar of the future, but unfortunately it's really too early for him and, above all, too early for Toto to make a decision about Antonelli," Rosberg told Sky, addressing the rumors currently circulating about the Italian "prodigy". 

A Mercedes cockpit for 2025 is currently still vacant.(Bild: Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

This is because, as was recently announced, a "special permit for a super license has been applied for from the FIA for the 17-year-old. It is not clear who is behind this. However, there are rumors that Antonelli could take over the Mercedes cockpit that has become vacant due to Hamilton's switch next season. 

Joining Williams?
A decision that should not be rushed, according to Rosberg: "He has to wait until later in the year to see how Antonelli performs in Formula 2, because he needs a really strong season in Formula 2 so that he can switch directly to Mercedes."

In addition, a Formula 1 entry for the Italian with another team would not be a bad option. A spell at Williams or a similar team would make sense, advises the 2016 world champion. Mercedes would have to find an interim solution in the meantime. Meanwhile, Antonelli could replace Logan Sargeant at Williams.