Kimi Antonelli is nearing his inaugural Formula 1 World Championship with Mercedes, prompting discussions regarding his long-term career trajectory. Former Formula 1 driver Riccardo Patrese has weighed in on Antonelli’s prospects, including a potential future move to Ferrari.
Patrese, speaking to the Casinostugan media team, acknowledged Antonelli’s talent. He stated that the Italian driver possesses the ability to join the sport’s greatest, but first must overcome Max Verstappen in a championship contest.
The former Grand Prix winner cautioned against sentiment in Formula 1. Patrese advised Antonelli to prioritise his career interests, particularly given Mercedes has provided the machinery for a World Championship.
He suggested that a move to Ferrari could occur “in a long time,” drawing a parallel to Lewis Hamilton’s career path. Patrese emphasised that such a transfer is not imminent.
Antonelli’s current contract with Mercedes was renewed for the 2026 season, with the announcement made on October 15, 2025. This extension brought Mercedes in line with other teams for year-to-year agreements.
Reports indicate Antonelli’s contract runs until the end of 2027, following Mercedes exercising an extension option. His base salary for the 2026 season is approximately $3.4 million.
Ferrari’s driver lineup for the 2027 season is confirmed to feature Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc. Leclerc signed a long-term extension, and Hamilton is contracted through at least 2027.
This solidifies Ferrari’s immediate future, meaning any potential move for Antonelli to the Scuderia would be for the 2028 season or beyond. Ferrari has also named Dino Beganovic and Antonio Giovinazzi as reserve drivers for 2027.
Antonelli currently leads the 2026 Drivers’ Championship with 340 points. He holds a 102-point advantage over teammate George Russell, who is in second place with 238 points.
Lewis Hamilton sits third with 229 points. Mercedes leads the Constructors’ Championship with 578 points, ahead of Ferrari and McLaren.
The 20-year-old Italian has secured eight victories this season. He arrives at the upcoming United States Grand Prix with his first mathematical opportunity to clinch the World Championship.
The United States Grand Prix, the eighteenth round of the 2026 season, will be held from October 23-25 at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas. The race is scheduled for October 25.
To secure the title in Austin, Antonelli must win the Grand Prix. This scenario also requires George Russell to finish ninth or lower, and Lewis Hamilton to finish fifth or lower.
Max Verstappen, currently fourth in the standings with 221 points, has shown improved form. He recently secured victories in Malaysia and Singapore.
These results highlight Red Bull’s increasing competitiveness following a challenging start to the new technical regulations. Patrese anticipates Verstappen’s momentum to continue in Austin.
Patrese also noted the evolving nature of Formula 1 careers, with drivers entering earlier and facing more races per season. He suggested that long careers, such as 15 years, are becoming less common.
The former driver believes Antonelli must directly challenge Verstappen to justify comparisons with figures like Ayrton Senna and Michael Schumacher. This battle is anticipated for the upcoming season.
