Rising Star: Damon Hill Praises Kimi Antonelli’s ‘Signs of Brilliance’ as He Eyes Mercedes F1 Seat

Kimi Antonelli is currently "demonstrating flashes of genius" as he aims to win over Mercedes.

"I believe he’s beginning to exhibit the exceptional talent that everyone mentions."

Damon Hill, the 1996 Formula 1 world champion, thinks that Andrea Kimi Antonelli is finally displaying the "brilliant" potential that Mercedes has consistently mentioned, following a challenging beginning in Formula 2.

Antonelli, Mercedes' prodigious talent, is being considered to join George Russell in replacing Lewis Hamilton for the 2025 Formula 1 season.

The 17-year-old is widely expected to secure the position, with Italian media indicating that an official statement might be released at Monza next month.

Antonelli holds the seventh position in the F2 rankings, trailing Red Bull junior Isack Hadjar by 78 points.

Although Formula 2 is a specification series designed for all cars to be the same, certain teams have faced more difficulties than others.

Antonelli holds a solid lead over his Prema teammate, Oliver Bearman, who is set to join Haas in Formula 1 next year.

In the most recent episode of the F1 Nation podcast, Hill shared his thoughts on Antonelli's advancement in F2.

Hill remarked that he believes the individual is beginning to display the exceptional talent that is often mentioned.

"They’ve clearly intensified their statements about Antonelli. Initially, I must admit, we had difficulty understanding their perspective."

"The Prema team he's part of hasn't managed to get their car in top shape, making it tough for him and Ollie Bearman to compete effectively in F2, but he's had some strong showings lately."

In the latest Formula 2 race at Spa, Antonelli executed an impressive maneuver in the rain through Eau Rouge, overtaking Franco Colapinto.

Hill believes that Antonelli will keep making a strong impression throughout the latter half of the year.

"He mentioned that he didn't witness it himself, but during the sprint race at Spa, which lasted only seven laps, there was a particular maneuver that caught everyone's attention."

"When analysts start to express excitement, saying things like 'Did you catch that? That was quite remarkable,' it's a clear sign that he's beginning to develop and demonstrate the skill and potential we've long anticipated."

"I certainly believe we should give him an additional half a season or so…"

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