Mercedes is currently putting a stop to driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli’s ambitions to also obtain his racing license for the Nürburgring Nordschleife. The young Italian has repeatedly expressed his dream of following in the footsteps of Max Verstappen – who made his debut in the 24-hour race last weekend – but the Silver Arrows are not on board with that for now: ‘He can try when he has won four world championships,’ says Mercedes boss Bradley Lord.
Read more Ricciardo on ‘real life’ after leaving Formula 1: ‘Can finally stay in one place now’
The adventures of Max Verstappen at the Nürburgring Nordschleife were followed not only by his many fans, who caused record crowds at the famous German circuit, but also by the Formula 1 colleagues of the Dutchman. Andrea Kimi Antonelli already spoke during Verstappen’s preparatory NLS races for the endurance race about his ambitions to follow in the footsteps of the world champion.
Kimi Antonelli even told Jules Gounon – one of Verstappen’s teammates during the 24 hours of the Nürburgring – during his visit to the 6 hours of Imola in April about his plans to obtain his Nordschleife license ‘at the end of the year’. However, Mercedes deputy team principal Bradley Lord now makes it clear that the young Italian must put his ambitions on ice for the time being.
Read more VIDEO: Carlos Sainz already drives first laps on brand new F1 circuit Madring
‘He can try when he has four world titles’
“No,” was Lord’s clear answer according to Motorsport.com when asked if Mercedes would allow Kimi Antonelli to obtain his Nordschleife license this year. “I talked to him about it. I think he meant it more as a joke.” The Mercedes boss then said with a smile: “He can try when he has won four world championships.” Lord is referring to Verstappen here. According to the Brit, the Dutch driver has ‘a bit more versatility in racing, thanks to his experience’. Formula 1 therefore currently has Kimi Antonelli’s ‘full focus’, Lord confirms.
Read more Toto Wolff surprised by Red Bull pace: ‘Huge step forward’
Read everything about GP Canada here
