2025 Driver Swap Gives Big Boost to Mercedes & Hamilton

George Russell views Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari for the 2025 Formula 1 season as a positive step for all parties. Hamilton, who won six of his seven world titles with Mercedes, was replaced by 18-year-old prodigy Andrea Kimi Antonelli. In an exclusive Motorsport.com interview, Russell reflects on the team’s changes and backs Antonelli to recover from a tough rookie phase. Share your thoughts in the comments below!

After 13 years with Mercedes, Hamilton joined Ferrari for a late-career challenge. Mercedes promoted Antonelli to partner Russell in 2025, positioning Russell as the team’s de facto leader. “There’s a different feeling in the team,” Russell said. “But our focus remains on performance.”

Mercedes started 2025 strongly, with Russell securing pole and victory in Canada. However, a rear suspension upgrade in Imola dented Antonelli’s confidence and team performance. Reverting to the older setup in Hungary yielded a podium (P3) for Russell, signaling recovery. “The change was good for Hamilton and us. Sometimes, you need a fresh start to get back on track,” Russell noted.

Antonelli faced rookie challenges, including a crash in Monza’s free practice and struggles post-suspension upgrade. Yet, Russell defends his teammate’s progress. “In Canada, I was on pole, he was P4, just 0.6 seconds off. In Belgium, he exited Q1, I reached Q3, but he was only 0.3 seconds slower,” Russell explained. “The results don’t show his progress. We’ve stepped back as a team, but Kimi’s still improving.”

Russell believes public perception of Antonelli’s struggles is exaggerated due to the team’s collective downturn. Small time gaps now have a bigger impact on grid positions. “Before, 0.1 seconds was one position. Now, it can be six or seven,” he added.

Mercedes’ W16 development misstep was “not ideal,” but Russell is confident it won’t affect the 2026 car. “95% of the team is already working on 2026,” he said. The major 2026 regulation changes, including new car designs, are the priority. Russell emphasized maintaining team creativity and confidence. “This sport relies on decisions and people behind the simulations,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Hamilton’s Ferrari stint has been tough, with a China sprint win as a rare highlight. His focus is on 2026. Antonelli is expected to rebound in the second half of 2025, starting at Zandvoort. What’s your take on Mercedes and Hamilton’s moves? Comment below!