Nyck de Vries has weighed in on the growing comparisons between 18-year-old Kimi Antonelli and Max Verstappen, following Mercedes’ shocking decision to sign the Italian prodigy for the 2025 Formula 1 season.

The paddock was left stunned when Mercedes announced Antonelli as their replacement for the Ferrari-bound Lewis Hamilton. At just 18 years old, Antonelli faces immense pressure stepping into one of the most coveted seats in Formula 1.

However, Mercedes has been careful not to place unrealistic expectations on the young driver, and Antonelli himself has distanced himself from direct comparisons to Hamilton.

Former F1 driver Nyck de Vries has recognized Antonelli’s talent and dedication but dismissed claims that he could be the next Verstappen.

“He [Kimi Antonelli] has incredible talent and lives and breathes his career. Other than Max, honestly, I don’t know anyone who lives for the sport as much as he does.”

While acknowledging Antonelli’s potential, de Vries insists that no driver has lived for Formula 1 quite like Verstappen has over the past decade.

Despite the skepticism surrounding Antonelli’s rapid rise, de Vries believes the young Italian is more than deserving of his 2025 Mercedes seat alongside George Russell.

“[Kimi Antonelli] deserves this opportunity, and George Russell has been there a long time. Antonelli knows what he is doing and has to take time to find speed and learn.”

The similarities between Antonelli and Verstappen are undeniable. Both drivers made waves in the junior categories before securing early F1 breakthroughs. However, the real challenge for Antonelli lies in proving that Mercedes and Toto Wolff’s faith in him was justified.

Can Kimi Antonelli follow Verstappen’s trajectory and become F1’s next superstar, or will the weight of expectations be too much? The 2025 season will provide the answers.