Hamilton opens door to Kimi Antonelli Ferrari move as Mercedes star stays loyal

Hamilton, now a Ferrari driver after leaving Mercedes and arrived for the Italian GP in style, understands the appeal of Formula 1’s most famous team better than most. Yet he also made clear why any potential move for the Italian is unlikely to be on the agenda in the near future.

Asked whether he could picture Antonelli joining Ferrari, Hamilton said: “I think it’s possible. I mean, the truth is there’s a lot of great drivers that could join Ferrari in the future.”

Hamilton added that Ferrari has a unique place in Italian culture. “Ferrari’s Ferrari,” he said. “I think the Italians, it’s the Pope and Ferrari as far as I’m aware and pasta and pizza and family.”

For Hamilton, the possibility is one for the longer term rather than a prediction of an immediate transfer. He pointed to Antonelli’s age, his potential and Mercedes’ determination to retain the driver it developed through its junior ranks.

Hamilton insists that while it could be an option for Antonelli, he added that Merc boss Toto Wolff would be keeping hold of the young Italian, saying:: "Toto is not gonna let him go anytime soon.”

The Silver Arrows gave the Italian his opportunity at the highest level, and Antonelli remains committed to the team. While acknowledging that Ferrari will inevitably be linked with an Italian driver, Antonelli said he is content where he is.

“Being an Italian myself, I know how emotional we are and how excited we can get about things,” he explained. “Sometimes overly excited. So, yeah, of course there will always be this kind of talk.”

Antonelli, who will start at the back due to an engine penalty, did not deny Ferrari’s stature. Instead, he set out why Mercedes remains the team to which he feels he owes loyalty. “Much as Ferrari is a massive, incredible brand, I’m very happy where I am,” he said.

His message is emphatic: Ferrari may represent a dream for many Italian racers, but Antonelli is not looking beyond Mercedes. Speculation may follow him throughout his career, especially if he continues to establish himself among Formula 1’s leading talents, but he has no desire to fuel it.

Hamilton’s broader assessment also highlighted the competitiveness at the front of the grid. He noted that there are three leading teams before a significant performance gap to the closely matched pack behind them. For Antonelli, remaining part of Mercedes’ long-term project presents an opportunity to fight at that level.

A Ferrari future cannot be ruled out forever. Hamilton himself says it is possible. But Antonelli’s current priority is clear: repay Mercedes’ belief, grow with the Silver Arrows and let future take care of itself.