IPA

Williams should replace Logan Sargeant with ‘next Max Verstappen’ Kimi Antonelli

Originally posted on FirstSportz | By Armaan Agarwal | Last updated 5/12/24

17-year-old Kimi Antonelli headlines as a future Mercedes F1 star after Lewis Hamilton decided to leave Ferrari. The Mercedes prodigy made his debut in Formula 2 this year. Toto Wolff has downplayed rumors of Antonelli joining the team next season. However, the Austrian billionaire is reportedly trying to get the Italian driver race for Williams this season.

Williams’ Logan Sargeant has failed to meet expectations since making his F1 debut last season. Despite securing a contract extension for 2024, the American driver is rumored to be at risk of losing his seat as early as this season. Reports have emerged that the Grove-based team is open to the idea of Kimi Antonelli replacing Sargeant mid-way through this season.

Kimi Antonelli is considered as the next Max Verstappen of Formula 1. The Italian driver has impressed the paddock with his sheer pace in junior categories, similar to Verstappen’s early days. Mercedes had reportedly requested the FIA for exempting Antonelli from the 18 year age limit for the F1 Super License. Although, Wolff denied these claims, it is clear that Williams should take up the chance to replace Sargeant with the 17-year-old.

Williams will only benefit from Kimi Antonelli’s F1 debut

Williams’ faith in Logan Sargent has evidently reduced this year. The Grove-based team made the American driver sit out of the Australian GP when Alex Albon‘s chassis was severely damaged. It is clear that the British team does not believe that Sargeant can bring results. As such, there seems to be no real reason for Williams to continue with the 22-year-old.

Giving Kimi Antonelli a chance to make his debut would bring limelight towards Williams. Although, some would criticize the British team, fans would rally behind the 17-year-old. The Italian driver has already impressed Mercedes in private tests with F1 machinery. Subsequently, it is likely that putting a gamble on Antonelli would pay off.

Further, the British team’s relationship with Mercedes would improve if James Vowles gives Antonelli a go. Previously, it was believed that Williams denied Wolff’s request to sign Mick Schumacher for this season. On the other hand, it is believed that Logan Sargeant would be inevitably replaced next season. Antonelli might continue with the Grove-based team for 2025 if Mercedes deems that the Italian needs a full season before racing for the Brackley-based team.

Certainly, it would be a bold move for Williams to sack Logan Sargeant for Kimi Antonelli mid-way through 2024. However, this decision would be justified given the circumstances with the 17-year-old simply being a more promising prospect. Fans would be waiting to see if James Vowles does take up Mercedes’ rumored offer to sign Antonelli for the remainder of this season.

This article first appeared on FirstSportz and was syndicated with permission.

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