Christian Klin: Antonelli can surprise everyone

      In 2025, George Russell's new Mercedes team-mate is Formula 1 debutant Kimi Antonelli, whom some consider the "new Max Verstappen." In part, the 18-year-old Italian is already justifying these advances, having demonstrated good speed in recent pre-season tests, although, of course, he still has to undergo a baptism of fire in the races, the first of which will take place next Sunday.

      According to Christian Kline, a former Formula 1 racer who once competed for Jaguar and Red Bull Racing, it is interesting to see how Russell will react to Antonelli's success.

      "It's still not clear what level Mercedes is at right now, but I'd like to see how Antonelli's season develops," the Austrian was quoted as saying by RacingNews365. "As far as I can see, he has a very aggressive driving style, and I always like such drivers.

      It's not clear how good the Mercedes car is, but I think there will be an interesting rivalry between Antonelli and George Russell. It's interesting to see how Russell will cope if such a young guy suddenly starts to get ahead of him.

      I don't think Antonelli will show consistent results right away, but what I see leads me to believe that he might surprise everyone in some race weekends. And when that happens, I wonder how Russell will react to it.

      George is starting the season as the Mercedes leader for the first time, so now I have to add – I'm curious what he'll do. I think he's capable of it, but still, his role in the team is a little different now. After Hamilton's departure, it feels like the atmosphere at Mercedes has changed, the team is breathing more freely, and this can also bring its advantages."