The question was asked by an F1 journalist, following the decision to replace seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton with a not-so-convincing rookie by the Mercedes team boss.
Leo Turrini has a lot of confidence in his young fellow citizen, but he also highlighted an interesting aspect:
"Since Giancarlo Fisichella came to Renault, we haven't had another Italian driver who has a chance of winning races. That's why I think it's a big deal that Kimi Antonelli will be on the grid with Mercedes in 2025. Let's not forget that Mercedes won four races in 2024. I think we can consider them as some of the favorites for this year's season! However, it should not be underestimated that this puts even more pressure on Antonelli. He is a very young driver, with absolutely zero experience, who should immediately replace the legendary Lewis Hamilton. Is it madness or genius? Time will tell...
"I think Antonelli is an extraordinary talent, even despite the fact that he completely skipped F3 and has only a little experience in F2. However, everyone I spoke to confirmed: he is a talent, who deserves to be in the F1 team. The rest depends only on Mercedes. Will they give him enough time? Is Toto Wolff a real madman or a genius of the era? Or does he only need Kimi Antonelli until Max Verstappen is free?" - asked the big questions Turrini.
Photo: GP Fans / XPB Images
