Toto Wolff Publicly Criticizes Kimi Antonelli Amid Performance Slump

Why it matters:

Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has publicly criticized junior driver Kimi Antonelli's "underwhelming" recent performances, raising questions about the Italian teenager's F1 trajectory and his anticipated 2026 seat.

The big picture:

Antonelli, a highly-touted talent, has struggled significantly since F1's summer break, finishing 16th in the Netherlands and dropping from sixth to ninth at his home race in Monza.

The details:

• Wolff's Shift: After Monza, Wolff stated, "Underwhelming this weekend. You can't put the car in the gravel bed and expect to be there." He maintained long-term confidence but highlighted immediate issues, including a practice spin.
• Rosberg's View: Nico Rosberg found Wolff's public criticism "very calculated," suggesting it's a tactic to pressure Antonelli to "modify their approach." He pointed out George Russell's dominant lead over Antonelli (19-0 in races, 17-2 in qualifying), adding, "The clock starts to tick."
• Form Dip: Antonelli started strong with five top-six finishes in six GPs, but has only one podium in his last ten races.

What's next:

Mercedes lacks confirmed 2026 drivers, partly due to earlier Max Verstappen pursuits. While Wolff insists on an unchanged lineup, Antonelli's form fuels speculation.

Rosberg advises offering Antonelli a contract to boost confidence, suggesting potential winter exit clauses. Despite pressure, Mercedes' investment and limited alternatives mean Antonelli likely continues for 2026. However, Wolff's likely pursuit of Verstappen for 2027 means Antonelli's long-term Silver Arrows future could be on the clock.