Martin Brundle has criticised Red Bull's treatment of young drivers while questioning Mercedes' decision to fast-track 18-year-old Kimi Antonelli into Formula 1. The Sky Sports pundit noted that Antonelli, who replaced Lewis Hamilton alongside George Russell, has struggled this season, with only one podium finish and a current seventh place in the standings.
Antonelli's difficult campaign hit a new low at the Belgian Grand Prix, where he qualified last and finished 16th. Brundle suggested the Italian might have benefited from more time in a less pressured environment, similar to Russell's three-year stint at Williams. However, he acknowledged that Antonelli is a 'protected species' at Mercedes, unlike Red Bull's drivers who face constant uncertainty.
Brundle highlighted Red Bull's history of mid-season driver changes, including the recent demotion of Liam Lawson after just two races and the likely replacement of Yuki Tsunoda for 2026. He said Antonelli is 'lucky' not to fear for his career like a Red Bull youngster, but added that the summer break cannot come soon enough for the teenager.
Despite Antonelli's struggles, Mercedes appears committed to him for 2026, with long-term target Max Verstappen likely to stay at Red Bull. Verstappen's break clause expired after his fourth-place finish in Belgium, meaning Mercedes would have to buy him out of his contract if they want to secure him, potentially at the cost of Antonelli or Russell.
