Toto Wolff Sees Hamilton Blueprint as Key to Antonelli’s Success

Toto Wolff believes that following a career plan similar to Lewis Hamilton’s early development will help Andrea Kimi Antonelli adapt to the demands of Formula 1. The young Italian is set to replace the legendary Hamilton at Mercedes next season, sparking comparisons between the two drivers, especially given their rapid rise through junior categories.

Hamilton’s Early Days: Managing Expectations

When Hamilton made his debut with McLaren in 2007, he joined the team as a rookie with an impressive junior record. Despite being paired with two-time world champion Fernando Alonso, then-McLaren boss Ron Dennis ensured that expectations for the young driver were kept realistic. Dennis emphasized that neither Hamilton nor the team should expect immediate results, allowing him to develop without excessive pressure. However, Hamilton defied expectations, delivering strong performances from the start and paving the way for his future success.

Avoiding the “Next Verstappen” Path

Antonelli’s rise has also drawn comparisons to Max Verstappen, who entered F1 at just 17 years old. While some have dubbed Antonelli the “next Verstappen,” Wolff aims to follow a path closer to Hamilton’s.

In an interview with Autosprint, Wolff shared that Hamilton’s career inspired him more. He noted that during Hamilton’s early years, there were more opportunities for testing, which helped him adapt quickly. Antonelli, however, faces more restrictive testing regulations in today’s F1. Additionally, the sport has evolved with increased pressure and the pervasive influence of social media.

Preparing Antonelli for F1’s New Landscape

Wolff stressed the importance of managing external pressures to ensure Antonelli’s smooth transition to F1. “With the current preparation, Kimi can jump into our car and be competitive,” said Wolff. He acknowledged that F1 is a “different animal” now compared to when Hamilton started, with more complexities to navigate.

Building a New Success Story

Wolff’s goal is to replicate Hamilton’s success story by giving Antonelli the right support structure. Drawing on Hamilton’s experience, Wolff plans to create a strategy that balances competitiveness with a measured approach to growth, ensuring the young driver thrives in the demanding world of F1.