'Mafia of Mercedes' - Fans put 'corruption' allegations on Toto Wolff amid changes in F1 licensing rule benefitting Kimi Antonelli

Formula 1 fans have expressed outrage following the FIA's recent update to super licence regulations, which could enable 17-year-old Mercedes junior driver Kimi Antonelli to make his F1 debut in the 2024 season.

Antonelli, a rising star in motorsport, has been highlighted as a potential successor to Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes. However, his age initially posed a barrier under the previous super licence rules. The FIA's updated rule states: "At the sole discretion of the FIA, a driver judged to have recently and consistently demonstrated outstanding ability and maturity in single-seater formula car competition may be granted a Super Licence at the age of 17 years old."

This change opens up the possibility for Antonelli to participate in FP1 sessions for Williams F1 and Mercedes, and potentially secure a full-time seat. The reaction from fans has been intense, with many taking to social media to voice their displeasure.

Some fans have accused Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff of manipulating the system for Antonelli’s benefit. One fan wrote on social media platform X: "Toto and corruption go hand in hand," reflecting a widespread sentiment among F1 enthusiasts.

Is Mercedes cautious against a premature move to F1?

Former F1 world champion Nico Rosberg also weighed in on the matter, acknowledging Antonelli's talent but cautioning against a premature move to F1. Speaking to Sky Sports, Rosberg stated, "Antonelli is definitely a superstar of the future, but unfortunately, timing-wise it's too early for him."

"Especially too early for Toto to decide on Antonelli. He needs to wait until later in the year as we see how Antonelli does in F2. He needs a really strong season in F2 to make it a possibility for him to go straight to Mercedes."

Currently, Kimi Antonelli sits sixth in the F2 standings with 48 points after five rounds in the 2024 season. Despite not yet securing a podium, his performances, including fourth-place finishes in Imola and Melbourne, indicate significant potential. With six rounds remaining, Antonelli trails the leader, Paul Aron, by 32 points.

Here is how fans react to the FIA rule change: 

We know Toto is the one that makes the rules but this is ridiculous

— MurcianoJapo (@japomurcian0) June 15, 2024

Toto and corruption go hand in hand

— Lowest Heightmilton (@TeamLHtears) June 15, 2024

Are we seeing him replacing Logan?



Not quite fair if that was the case

— Petai (@limpektokcock) June 15, 2024

Logan Sargeant could soon be dismissed from F1 service.

— Kunal Shah (@kunalashah) June 15, 2024

Bye Logan 😆 pic.twitter.com/tyx44wY6Vr

— My Helpful Hints® (@MyHelpfulHints_) June 15, 2024

By the corruption and mafia of mercedes, wonder how redbull able to win 3 champs. This sport is rotten to hell.

— I_luv_wush_waini (@gouthy2007) June 15, 2024

Rule change to help Mercedes imagine my shock

— 🐻 (@PookieNacua) June 15, 2024

pic.twitter.com/MAGiU5huRa

— borja ☻ (@borjaesba) June 16, 2024