Bottas to Shape Antonelli’s F1 Future in 2025

Valtteri Bottas returns to Mercedes in 2025 as Kimi Antonelli’s mentor, guiding the rookie’s development both on and off the track.

One of Valtteri Bottas’ roles in 2025 will be to mentor Formula 1 rookie and Toto Wolff’s protégé, Kimi Antonelli.

Having lost his seat at Sauber/Audi, the Finn was brought back by his former boss to serve as Mercedes F1’s primary reserve driver this year.

This appointment not only displaced Mick Schumacher from the role but also pushed Mercedes’ other backup, 23-year-old Frederik Vesti, further aside.

The Dane admits he was already frustrated by Antonelli’s nomination as Lewis Hamilton’s successor.

“There are five rookies in Formula 1 this season, and I beat four of them in F2.”

“It’s incredibly frustrating to sit back and watch people who, in my view, don’t deserve it as much. But it motivates me, because it’s also proof that I can really do it.”

Wolff believes this is a golden opportunity for Mercedes to capitalize on Bottas’ experience as a proven race winner.

“Part of Valtteri’s job will be to take care of Kimi. Be there, coach him, and constantly keep an eye on what’s happening on the track.”

Despite Antonelli’s very young age, Wolff is determined not only to ensure the Italian is the right replacement for Hamilton, who has joined Ferrari, but also to give him time to shine.

“I couldn’t repeat the mistake I made with Max Verstappen, who ended up at Red Bull.”

“The preparations with Kimi are going well, but they began many years ago. I’ll keep him under my wing for as long as necessary. Kimi will learn from Valtteri, but also from George (Russell).”

“George isn’t mentioned enough,” Wolff adds. “We have an experienced race-winning driver, and we have this rising new talent. Meanwhile, Lewis is following his own path, searching for something new. I think it’s been refreshing for both sides.”