Lewis Hamilton does not rule out the possibility of Kimi Antonelli defending Ferrari at some point in his Formula 1 career. The young Italian driver, however, indicated that a move to Maranello is far from his current plans and reinforced his connection with Mercedes.
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Asked about the possibility of Antonelli racing for Ferrari, Hamilton assessed that the scenario could happen in the future, highlighting the strength of the brand among Italians: “I think it’s possible. The truth is there are many excellent drivers who could race for Ferrari in the future,” said the seven-time world champion.
Hamilton also emphasized Ferrari’s cultural weight in Italy: “Ferrari is Ferrari. As far as I know, for Italians it’s the Pope, Ferrari, besides pasta, pizza, and family,” he said. At the same time, the Brit made it clear that he does not consider Antonelli’s transfer imminent, mainly due to the young Italian driver’s age and the relationship built with Mercedes.
In Hamilton’s view, Toto Wolff does not intend to give up the young driver easily: “I think it’s great, and he’s obviously in the early stages of life,” Hamilton commented, before adding: “Toto won’t let him go that soon,” he concluded.
Antonelli, for his part, acknowledged that speculations involving Ferrari will be inevitable because he is Italian, but said he is happy at Mercedes: “As much as Ferrari is a huge and incredible brand, I’m very happy where I am,” he said. The young driver also highlighted the relationship built from the grassroots: “I’m very happy with Mercedes because they gave me the opportunity since I was a child, and I feel I have a lot to give back,” he added.
Although Hamilton considers a future move of Antonelli to Ferrari possible, the Italian driver himself maintains his commitment to Mercedes. The German team was responsible for his rise from the very first steps in his career, and Antonelli indicated that his focus remains on the current project.
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