Williams Prepping for Kimi Antonelli’s Signing as Max Verstappen Possibly Locks in Mercedes Seat

The 2024 F1 silly season began with the unexpected vacancy at Mercedes after Lewis Hamilton decided to switch to Ferrari in 2025. And as such, there has been a lot of speculation about who will fill the coveted seat alongside George Russell. With its reputation, Mercedes has no shortage of potential candidates, ranging from promising young talents like Andrea Kimi Antonelli to seasoned pros such as Carlos Sainz, Alex Albon, and Fernando Alonso. However, Toto Wolff’s suggestion of going bold with their driver choice had pegged Kimi Antonelli’s chances higher than others. But the recent chaos at Red Bull has possibly opened the door for Max Verstappen to join the Brackley squad. And if that were to happen, Andrea Kimi Antonelli would probably be promoted to Williams according to recent reports.

Antonelli, known simply as Kimi, has been under the Mercedes wing since the age of 11, rising through the ranks with remarkable success. Despite his young age, he has already proven himself in various motorsport categories, from dominating karting championships to claiming single-seater titles. His achievements have caught the attention of the Formula 1 world, with many believing he is the next Max Verstappen of Formula 1. But with the real Verstappen now possibly available to Mercedes, Toto Wolff is making way for Kimi to be signed by Williams.

Max Verstappen might be the future of Mercedes

The ongoing chaos within the Red Bull Racing camp, stemming from an investigation into allegations against team principal Christian Horner, has fueled rumors of a potential move for Verstappen to Mercedes. This speculation is backed by indications of trouble between Verstappen and Red Bull management, with his father, Jos Verstappen, openly calling for Horner’s departure. Additionally, there’s talk of exit clauses in Verstappen’s contract, which could be activated should Helmut Marko be removed from the team as a result of a new investigation against the motorsport advisor.

READ MORE: Max Verstappen Breaks Silence on Helmut Marko Suspension Rumors

Toto Wolff was spotted engaging in discussions with Verstappen Sr. after the Bahrain Grand Prix, adding fuel to the fire of speculation. However, despite mounting pressure, Wolff remains cautious in his approach, opting not to rush into a decision until it is absolutely clear that Max Verstappen will not be making a move to Mercedes. In a recent discussion on the Formel1.de YouTube channel, the hosts discussed a possible agreement between Mercedes and Williams regarding Andrea Kimi Antonelli.

“If Verstappen were to switch to Mercedes, that would mean okay, there is no room for [Kimi] Antonelli in the future,” said the host. “And we found out today that James Vowles, the Williams team boss, apparently already has an agreement in the event that Verstappen goes to Mercedes, it should happen that Antonelli can be parked at Williams for as long as necessary, preparations are already being made for that. This change of Max Verstappen to Mercedes which doesn’t mean that it will happen but Mercedes is doing everything to be prepared should this opportunity arise.”

With the possibility of Verstappen having an exit clause with Helmut Marko, Mercedes might have to welcome the 80-year-old alongside Max Verstappen if the move were to happen.

Toto Wolff more than willing to welcome Helmut Marko into the Mercedes family

Recent reports suggest that Dr. Marko is under investigation in connection with leaked information that played a role in a trial involving Christian Horner. This investigation could potentially lead to Marko parting ways with the team. Interestingly, Toto Wolff seems eager to welcome Marko aboard should he decide to leave Red Bull. According to reports, Wolff has a strong bond with Marko and even sees him as a potential replacement for the late Niki Lauda.

According to a recent tweet from ‘Fastest Pitstop,’ Marko made it clear that certain conditions would need to be met for him to continue his tenure with Red Bull. Verstappen, known for his loyalty to Marko, has also hinted that he might consider leaving Red Bull if Marko were to depart. This is turning out to be potentially the best possible scenario for Mercedes in case the situation at Red Bull implodes.

Do you want to see Red Bull at Mercedes? Who will Red Bull choose to replace the Dutchman if he decides to quit? Share your insights in the comments down below.