Kimi Antonelli will continue to drive for Mercedes in 2026: However, the 19-year-old Italian now admits that he even had “doubts” about his Formula 1 future at times.
Kimi Antonelli will continue to drive for Mercedes in Formula 1 in 2026: While teammate George Russell has apparently been given a multi-year contract, the 19-year-old Italian will initially drive on a one-year contract—apparently with the option to continue in 2027.
Antonelli is having a mixed debut season in the premier class, especially in the European races: both technical defects and self-inflicted incidents, such as the start accident with Max Verstappen in Austria or the qualifying crash in Monaco, did not leave a good impression on those responsible.
The Italian’s Formula 1 future was therefore temporarily in the balance, especially when rumors of a possible Verstappen move to Mercedes began to circulate. It was said that the 18-year-old might have to vacate his cockpit after only one season and could be relegated to Alpine.
Kimi Antonelli “had certain doubts”
Antonelli now reveals that he was not necessarily worried about a contract extension and praises Mercedes for their support. At the same time, however, the Italian admits that the difficult phase in the middle of the season led him to question his future.
“The team was always very clear about its plans and what it was going to do, so I was never really worried, but of course it’s always nice to get confirmation,” admits the Mercedes driver. “Especially with all the ups and downs, particularly during the difficult phase, certain doubts arise.”
“But the team was always very supportive and open and really wanted to continue, especially for next year. I’m really happy to now have confirmation that it’s official. Even though I already knew, it reassures me a little bit more because now I know for sure that I have my place for next year.”
Mercedes youngster knows: “I have to deliver too”
However, Antonelli cannot afford a similar drop in performance next year if he wants to extend his Mercedes contract until 2027. “I race year after year and always try to deliver the best possible results.”
“As I said, the team obviously wants to continue working with me in the future, not just next year, but I also have to deliver,” says the Mercedes youngster. “Their plan is to continue with me, probably beyond 2026.”
“But for me as a driver, it’s crucial that I perform and deliver results, especially next year, because I’ll have a year of experience and there will be new regulations and huge opportunities for everyone.” Even individual results, such as the podium in Canada, will no longer be enough to save him. “If we have the car, it will be really important for me to get the most out of the result and show my best performance,” emphasizes this year’s Formula 1 rookie Antonelli, “especially if I want to secure my place for 2027 and beyond.”
