Ex-F1 driver tells Wolff to take a risk: "I'd like to see him at Mercedes"

Giancarlo Fisichella wants to see Andrea Kimi Antonelli replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes for the 2025 Formula 1 season. The seven-time World Champion will leave Mercedes when the chequered flag drops at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix to pursue a new challenge at Ferrari. The former F1 driver suggests that the team boss should take a risk regarding Hamilton's replacement.

The Hamilton switch took Wolff by surprise. Hamilton told his team boss over breakfast shortly before the news was made public. Luckily for Wolff, Hamilton will remain at Mercedes for the next 10 months, so the Austrian has plenty of time to assess his options. 

Who will replace Hamilton at Mercedes?

Fisichella competed in 229 Grands Prix, placing him 14th on the all-time list. The former driver believes Mercedes should consider pinching Daniel Ricciardo from the Red Bull programme. 

"Daniel has spent time as Red Bull's third driver, where he did well until his accident and wrist injury. It's difficult to predict what his future holds. It will be nice for him to have a good car this year, and how good he is because he has a lot of experience, and it will be good for a top team to have him. It's difficult to say. Daniel Ricciardo could be a good replacement for Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes because Mercedes need a driver with his experience," Fisichella told OLBG. 

But ultimately, Fisichella believes Mercedes should target someone younger to drive alongside George Russell. Antonelli will race in F2 this season, and Mercedes have gold in their hands with this young talent. Should things go well, Fisichella tells Wolff they should promote him.

"I think Mercedes should push for Andrea Kimi Antonelli. He's a young driver who will race in F2 this year. He's so quick and he's already very good. I'd like to see him there," he added.