From Alps to F1: Antonelli's first promo shoot with Mercedes
01/05/2025 08:51 AM
Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes' rising star, has a lot on his plate ahead of his Formula 1 debut in 2025.
But before embarking on his promising journey among motorsport's elite, the young Italien enjoyed his first promo shoot with his employer.
In the short film "Charging Up for 2025", Antonelli takes a scenic drive through the snow-capped European Alps in a camouflaged version of Mercedes yet-to-be-released all-electric CLA.
As he weaves through icy roads, the car's advanced energy recuperation system in action, Kimi effortlessly showcases the CLA's impressive ability to generate electricity – enough to light up a Christmas tree.
The festive sparkle of the illuminated red livery against the snow was a perfect touch.
The film is more than just a promotional video. It's a glimpse into the future, where Mercedes' cutting-edge EV technology meets the precision driving of a future F1 champion.
But it also serves as a reminder of Kimi's journey: rising through Mercedes' Junior Programme to make his Formula 1 debut in 2025.
©Mercedes
The 18-year-old's upcoming debut is something Mercedes F1 team principal Toto Wolff is certainly excited about, though he's keeping expectations grounded.
"He will only be a prodigy when he really delivers in Formula 1," Wolff told Auto Motor und Sport.
"We hope that will happen sooner rather than later, but certainly not right at the start."
An Electrifying Future with Mercedes
Wolff also acknowledged the challenges ahead for the young driver, but also for his team.
"If you expect him to be on pole position in Melbourne, win the race and immediately compete for the championship, then the risk is high because that won't happen," Wolff said.
"But if we approach it in a way that the boy is 18 years old, very talented, but of course he has to grow into it first and will make mistakes along the way, then the risk is limited."
Looking ahead, Wolff sees 2025 as somewhat of a stepping stone.
"We see 2025 as a transition year and want to prepare him for 2026, where everything starts from scratch for everyone," he added.
If his driving in the Alps is any indication, Antonelli's future in F1 looks electrifying – figuratively of course.
Check out the short video on YouTube:
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