Pressure increases on Antonelli as Mercedes considers its 2026 strategies.

      "The pressure on Kimi Antonelli is intensifying daily, as the young rookie continues to face difficulties competing alongside George Russell in his first season with Mercedes. Once regarded as the next Verstappen, Antonelli was accelerated into Formula 1 at the age of just 18—having received his super licence dispensation while still 17. However, the initial promise has transformed into pressure, with the Italian visibly emotional during a tough weekend at Spa, where he was seen in tears before the gathered media.

      Ralf Schumacher stated, 'He’s simply too far behind,' warning that Antonelli's future could be at risk if the gap to Russell does not decrease. 'Entering Formula 1 as the new Verstappen isn’t beneficial for anyone.' He added, 'You must be realistic. If he aims to become a world-class driver, everyone will undoubtedly be paying attention to his performance against Russell— and he hasn’t reached that level yet.'

      Martin Brundle, in a conversation with f1-insider.com, questioned the choice to debut Antonelli directly with Mercedes. 'I often wonder why they didn’t allow Kimi a year or two with a smaller team, like they did for George Russell, to develop under less scrutiny. They must not let him drift mentally.'

      Nico Rosberg, the 2016 world champion, as quoted by Ekstra Bladet, believes that Mercedes should take firm action. 'I would propose a deal with him,' he noted. 'It's a small investment, and it would boost his self-confidence. If the situation deteriorates significantly by the end of the year, you can always let him go and make a change, as we have frequently seen in Formula 1.'

      Reports indicate that Toto Wolff has had discussions with Flavio Briatore regarding a possible loan move to Alpine, but current signs suggest that both Antonelli and Russell will be retained for 2026."