Formula 1 team Mercedes-AMG Petronas is navigating significant shifts within its lineup as seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton prepares to move to Ferrari in 2025, while rising star Andrea Kimi Antonelli is set to join the team. These developments mark the start of a new era for Mercedes as it faces challenges from rival teams and changing dynamics in the competitive world of Formula 1.

The Italian Grand Prix at Monza is expected to be the stage for Mercedes to announce Antonelli’s signing, following reports that the 17-year-old Italian has already inked a contract with the team.

Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has long been an advocate of Antonelli, a driver who has rapidly progressed through the ranks and demonstrated his talent by clinching multiple junior championships.

After intensive testing with Mercedes, including runs at circuits like Imola and Silverstone, Antonelli’s debut marks a new direction for Mercedes as they prepare for the future.

Hamilton, who has been with Mercedes since 2013, expressed his support for the young driver. Speaking at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, Hamilton said, “Taking on a youngster would be the right move. If it was my choice, I’d probably take on Kimi.” This sentiment aligns with Wolff’s strategy to take a “calculated risk” by giving Antonelli the time to develop within the team, similar to McLaren’s nurturing of driver Oscar Piastri.

Hamilton, a global icon in the sport, has left an indelible mark on Mercedes, helping the team achieve six driver titles and eight constructor championships. Wolff recently acknowledged Hamilton’s impact, both on and off the track, stating that his presence brought Mercedes increased global attention and media coverage. With only ten races left in his Mercedes career, Hamilton’s departure leaves a sizable gap in the team’s lineup and brand identity.

Meanwhile, Red Bull’s turbulent internal structure has further shifted the F1 landscape, prompting speculation about future moves. Notably, the team’s recent loss of technical minds, including Chief Technical Officer Adrian Newey and Sporting Director Jonathan Wheatley, has raised questions about Max Verstappen’s long-term commitment to Red Bull. Former F1 team manager Peter Windsor recently criticized Wolff’s decision not to pursue Newey, suggesting it was a missed opportunity for Mercedes.

Despite recent gains, Mercedes remains fourth in the Constructors’ Championship with 266 points, trailing Ferrari by 79 points. The team’s engineering lead, Andrew Shovlin, highlighted several issues still affecting the car’s performance but noted optimism as Mercedes continues to deliver crucial updates.

As Mercedes enters this period of transition, the signing of Antonelli and the potential for Verstappen to join in 2026 bring both opportunities and uncertainties. “A new era will start for Mercedes,” said Wolff. “I don’t know yet who will be the next era’s important drivers, but we’re prepared to face what comes next.”

The Italian Grand Prix will serve as a pivotal moment for Mercedes, marking the beginning of its strategic adjustments for the future. As the team prepares for Hamilton’s departure and continues to solidify its lineup, the stage is set for a transformative season in Formula 1.