The Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team is excited to announce its Junior Programme driver line-up for 2023. Six drivers from 2022 continue with the Team, and there is one new addition for this year, bringing the roster to seven up-and-coming talents. The programme, established in 2016, carries on Mercedes-Benz’s legacy of identifying and supporting young drivers.
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The seven juniors will compete in categories spanning the entire F1 feeder series ladder spectrum, from karting to FIA Formula 2.
Toto Wolff, Team Principal & CEO:
Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance Launch
We’re looking forward to seeing how our Junior Drivers progress this season. We noticed some great performances in 2022, and we’ll keep helping them improve as they grow. Kimi’s Formula Regional Middle East title is an encouraging recent example of their progress. All our Junior Drivers are at very different but exciting stages of their young careers, and I’m sure it will be another positive year for the programme.
Gwen Lagrue, Driver Development Advisor:
For 2023, our Junior Programme has drivers racing in almost every step of the feeder series ladder. We’re optimistic it will be another strong season and year of positive progress. After an initial taste of F1 in Abu Dhabi last year at the rookie test, we expect Frederick Vesti to be fighting for wins and be in contention for the FIA F2 title.
Following a successful campaign in the Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine (FRECA), Paul Aron moves up to FIA F3. He’s ready to be a front-runner in his first season. Andrea Kimi Antonelli will graduate from FRECA after an outstanding double title winning the F4 campaign, and a solid start to 2023, winning the Formula Regional Middle East championship.
Alex Powell is leading our group of drivers on the international karting scene alongside Yuanpu Cui and Luna Fluxá; they all have the experience to deliver strong seasons. We are also pleased to welcome the talented Kenzo Craigie to our programme in 2023, becoming our youngest Junior as he tackles the British karting championships.
Introducing the Junior Programme Class of 2023:
Andrea Kimi Antonelli
Andrea Kimi Antonelli: Class of 2023 – Junior Programme Line-Up
Born in Bologna, Italy, in 2006, Kimi joined the Junior Programme in April 2019, following several titles and championships in junior karting categories.
Success in karting continued with Kimi claiming the…
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