Kimi Antonelli’s new deal with Mercedes has left some questions about his future beyond 2026, and there’s already talk around the paddock that Charles Leclerc could be in line for a move to the team.
Mercedes announced new contracts for both Antonelli and George Russell ahead of the United States Grand Prix, putting an end to one of the season’s most talked-about storylines.
Russell, whose strong performances this year have been rewarded with a long-term extension, saw off earlier speculation linking Max Verstappen to his seat.
Meanwhile, Antonelli has reportedly agreed to a one-year extension. It gives him more time to prove himself at the top level while still leaving options open on both sides.
The full details of Antonelli’s contract haven’t been released yet, but reports suggest he also has longer-term ties with Mercedes beyond what’s publicly known.
F1 paddock talk suggests Charles Leclerc could replace Kimi Antonelli at Mercedes
Toto Wolff has openly admitted to unsettling Russell earlier in the season with his pursuit of Verstappen, and it’s no secret that he still sees the Dutchman as a potential fit for Mercedes down the line.
But now there’s a fresh name circulating in the paddock, and if talk becomes reality, Antonelli could find himself under even more pressure.
During an episode of ESPN’s Unlapped podcast from Circuit of the Americas, journalist Nate Saunders discussed how Antonelli’s new deal might create an opening for Leclerc, who has made no secret of his frustrations with Ferrari this year.
He said: “What was interesting about it, though, was that there was the suggestion of a multi-year deal. The conventional wisdom in the paddock has been for a while that George would get a one-year deal to kind of free them up to get Max maybe down the line.
“But I think that’s now where the pressure has gone towards Antonelli. He’s got a one-year deal, and if he doesn’t perform next year, I think Wolff looks to move him on.”
Charles Leclerc expected to make a decision on Ferrari’s future in 2026
Leclerc is still waiting for Ferrari to match his talent with a car that can compete at the front of the grid. Despite being one of the top drivers without a title, the Scuderia’s recent cars haven’t given him much hope.
Speaking to Sky Sport Italia during the United States Grand Prix, journalist Roberto Chinchero explained that while winning a title with Ferrari remains Leclerc’s ‘obsession’, there may be a deadline looming if results don’t improve.
He said: “It’s clear that next year, the first half of the season will decide a lot of things. As with Russell, if things go well, there’s really no reason to look elsewhere.
READ MORE: Antonelli admits Belgian GP was his lowest point in difficult first F1 season
“If things don’t go well, though, that’s a different story. I’d add an asterisk there because in that case, a big market opens up. And if things don’t work out, it would only be logical for him to start looking around.
“Maybe he still keeps an eye on Ferrari, but I think it’s perfectly reasonable to explore other options.”
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