Rumors about Kimi Antonelli making his debut at the Nordschleife came to an end last weekend. During the 24 Hours of Nürburgring, Mercedes ruled out the chance of the young Italian obtaining the DMSB License necessary to compete in the legendary “Green Hell” this year, as Max Verstappen did last year.
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The speculation began after Antonelli stated, in a recent video, that he would like to obtain the so-called “license for the Nordschleife” by the end of the year. The statement quickly spread on social media and generated comparisons with the four-time world champion from Red Bull, who has raced on the German circuit on several occasions.
When asked by Nitro about the possibility, Mercedes’ deputy chief, Bradley Lord, was straightforward. “No,” he replied. “I have already talked to him about it. I think it was more of a joke,” he explained. In a relaxed tone, Lord also commented that Antonelli might try this “after four world titles,” referring to Verstappen. According to him, the Dutchman has “more room to maneuver thanks to his experience” than the 19-year-old driver.
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While Verstappen competed in the 24 Hours of Nürburgring this year alongside Daniel Juncadella, Jules Gounon, and Lucas Auer — even leading the race before a mechanical issue took the team out of the fight for victory — Antonelli will remain fully focused on Formula 1.
The Italian is experiencing a great phase in the category. After four races, he leads the drivers’ championship with three consecutive wins and a 20-point advantage over George Russell, his teammate. Mercedes also leads the constructors’ championship, with 180 points and a 100% success rate this season.
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