Antonelli: Weird an Italian driver is in Mercedes, an English driver is in Ferrari

The last time F1 had an Italian driver was when Antonio Giovinazzi drove for Alfa Romeo, aka Sauber, aka Audi F1, in 2021, but since then the Ferrari-linked driver has moved on, driving in WEC with Ferrari's AF Corse team.

Fast forward to 2025, and another Italian driver is stepping into an F1 car as Mercedes decided to fast-track Antonelli into the top flight after just one season in Formula 2 to replace Ferrari-bound Hamilton alongside George Russell.

Speaking to Sky Sports F1 at the Autosport awards, it was pointed out to the rookie that as an Italian he won't be driving the country's most famous team, Ferrari.

He quipped: "It’s a bit weird because it’s a bit controversial that an Italian driver is going to Mercedes and an English driver is going to Ferrari!

"But I’m super happy with the position I am [in], and of course there’s a lot of hype around because [there’s] another new Italian on the grid, and then of course such a figure like Lewis joining Ferrari is an incredible thing.

"I think during the Italian Grand Prix there is going to be a lot of excitement around," he reckoned.

And while Antonelli will have a steep learning curve in 2025, he insists he will not spare any effort targeting wins with Mercedes.

He added: "I’m going to go with the mindset of trying to win, but of course you have to be realistic at the same time.

"I just joined the grid. I’m in a good team—I’m in a great team. I’m with Mercedes, and I’m really grateful for the opportunity I got.

"But of course I will need to learn; I will try to make the least amount of mistakes, try to learn race by race, and then also [try to be] achieve some great results, especially if the speed is there.

"I’m going to try also to learn a lot from my teammate, George," he added with humility. "He’s a really good driver, and he showed especially last year what he’s capable of.

"I’m going to try to learn as much as possible, and then we’ll see what we can do," the 18-year-old, who just passed his road driving test, concluded.