Just a few days before the official pre-season testing in Bahrain and a few weeks before the first Grand Prix in Australia, Mercedes launched their W16 challenger through digital launch, entering the 2025 season. It seems the German team is turning the page and entering a whole new chapter.

This season is the last with the current regulations before a big shift in 2026. Even though the teams’ focus is on developing a new competitive car for the new set of regulations, their work on the current W16 hasn’t stop. Last year’s W15 struggled, especially in slow corners and with the tyre temperature, so naturally the team came up with new development to become more consistent and competitive across all races, especially in terms of aerodynamics.

Mercedes is entering a new chapter with their drivers as well. Alongside George Russell, who’s entering his fourth season with the team and brings valuable experience, the addition is 18-year-old rookie Kimi Antonelli. Together with the return of Valtteri Bottas as the reserve driver alongside Fred Vesti, they form an exciting line-up full of experience and young energy.

Mercedes released a video featuring both drivers, talking about them being teammates, their favourite movies, and even Antonelli’s English skills. So, if you want to get to know the line-up better, head over to YouTube.