This season, the journey of each rookie on the grid has provided an entertaining subplot to the championship race, alongside the exploits of veterans like Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen.
As Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris vie for their first drivers’ championship this year, several newcomers are eager to make their mark during their debut seasons.
Jack Doohan has already lost his seat at Alpine, and his replacement, Franco Colapinto, has struggled similarly.
Fernando Alonso has endorsed Gabriel Bortoleto as a generational talent following his recent improvement at Sauber, while Isack Hadjar is being tipped for a Red Bull seat next year after impressive performances alongside Liam Lawson.
Jolyon Palmer has been analyzing the influence of Andrea Kimi Antonelli at Mercedes this season. He warns that Mercedes could become a ‘one-man team’ without improvement from Antonelli, suggesting that distractions regarding his future may be hindering his performance.
Jolyon Palmer Notes Antonelli’s Decline at Mercedes
On the F1 Nation Podcast, Palmer remarked: “Mercedes is still trying to decipher the car’s issues. Russell is driving exceptionally well right now.”
“Much like Ferrari, they risk becoming a one-man team. With Hamilton faltering, Antonelli seems to be struggling even more. They need to get him back on track to challenge Ferrari for the title.”
Palmer was also asked whether Verstappen’s confirmed commitment to Red Bull in 2026 might relieve some pressure on Antonelli. He replied, “I hope so. For someone in the car, it would be reassuring.”
“At just 18 and a rookie, it can be overwhelming. However, he can take comfort in the likelihood of remaining at Mercedes, which gives him some time. Yet, he is currently in a pattern we’ve seen with other drivers where overthinking hinders his natural instincts in the car.”
Toto Wolff Supports Antonelli Amid Contract Uncertainty
Antonelli’s contract with Mercedes is set to expire at the end of the season, but he is expected to continue with the team into 2026 and beyond.
Team principal Toto Wolff has commented on Antonelli’s prospects, expressing confidence in his potential for success.
However, Antonelli faces strong competition from George Russell on the team. While many rookies are compared to exceptional drivers, Antonelli is uniquely challenged by someone who has already secured race victories this season.
Antonelli has the ability to improve, but he must regain his confidence in the upcoming months. The 2026 season will present challenges for all drivers, especially with new regulations leading to entirely new cars.
This scenario could be beneficial for the current rookies, who have less experience with the ground-effect era, but Antonelli knows he must start the next year strong.
