Mercedes Admit Development Mistakes Harming Rookie Antonelli's F1 2025 Season

Mercedes technical director James Allison has acknowledged that the team's development mistakes with their 2025 Formula One car have directly impacted rookie driver Kimi Antonelli's performance struggles. Despite a promising start to the season, including a podium in Canada and a sprint pole in Miami, Antonelli has since faced multiple retirements and a loss of confidence in the car, finishing outside the points in recent European races. Allison confirmed that both Antonelli and teammate George Russell have been affected by the car's shortcomings, emphasizing that the team's wrong development steps made the car less competitive. Mercedes currently stands third in the F1 standings, trailing Ferrari by 28 points, with Russell outperforming Antonelli in points and podium finishes. Allison remains hopeful that improving the car will reverse Antonelli's fortunes, recognizing the rookie's continued effort despite the setbacks. Additionally, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has publicly supported Antonelli amid his challenges.