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Many people in the Formula 1 paddock reportedly felt Toto Wolff ‘goofed spectacularly’ by signing Kimi Antonelli as Lewis Hamilton’s replacement at Mercedes.
After Hamilton’s high-profile transfer from Mercedes to Ferrari was confirmed, the Silver Arrows announced teenager Antonelli as George Russell’s partner for the 2025 season.
Although Antonelli endured a tough first season, where he made several mistakes which led to heavy criticism, Wolff’s confidence in him has been rewarded in 2026 as the 19-year-old currently leads the world championship by 20 points.
Antonelli produced yet another commanding display as he won the Miami Grand Prix ahead of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
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F1 paddock figures felt Toto Wolff ‘goofed spectacularly’ by signing Kimi Antonelli
Before Antonelli showed his true capabilities, many people in the F1 paddock appeared sceptical over Wolff’s decision to sign the Italian teenager as Hamilton’s replacement.
According to ESPN, during Antonelli’s tough spell in 2025, it was not ‘difficult’ to find people in the F1 paddock who felt Wolff had ‘goofed spectacularly’ by putting the teenager in the Mercedes, especially in a car that had belonged to Hamilton.
However, Wolff’s decision has now been proved right, with Antonelli securing a hat-trick of victories and piling big pressure on his much more experienced teammate, Russell.
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Toto Wolff praises ‘astounding’ Kimi Antonelli after Miami Grand Prix victory
While many expected Russell to be the clear favourite to win the 2026 world title, Antonelli has so far displayed what he is capable of.
Following a hat-trick of victories, Mercedes team boss Wolff was full of praise for Antonelli.
As reported by Sky Sports, Wolff said: “It’s astounding these few races. In a way, what we predicted as a team, that we would have ups and downs last season, moments of brilliance, moments where you want to tear your hair out.
“And this year, it’s coming together. I don’t think that any of us would have expected this kind of run.
“To give him a car that is very good, an engine that is right. But how he’s been able to monetise on that every single weekend is special.”
Looking ahead, Antonelli will be hoping to continue his momentum when the 2026 season resumes with the Canadian Grand Prix at the end of the month.
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