Andrea Kimi Antonelli
Andrea Kimi Antonelli, the rising Italian star, is set to make his Formula 1 debut with Mercedes in the 2025 season.
Early Life and Karting Success
Born on 25 August 2006 in Bologna, Italy, Andrea Kimi Antonelli was introduced to motorsport at a young age by his father, Marco Antonelli, a successful sportscar racing driver. Antonelli’s middle name, Kimi, was given to him by a family friend in honor of 2007 Formula 1 World Champion Kimi Räikkönen.
Antonelli began his karting career at the age of seven, quickly demonstrating his talent and determination. He won his first title in 2015 at the Trofeo Easykart Italia in the 60cc class. In the following years, Antonelli continued to impress, securing victories and podium finishes in various national and international karting championships.
Joining the Mercedes Junior Team
In 2019, Antonelli’s potential caught the attention of Mercedes, and he was signed to their prestigious junior driver program. This association provided him with valuable support and guidance as he progressed through the junior single-seater categories.
Italian and ADAC Formula 4 Dominance
Antonelli made his single-seater debut in 2021, competing in select rounds of the Italian F4 Championship with Prema Racing. Despite joining mid-season, he immediately showcased his speed and racecraft, securing three podium finishes and ending the season tenth in the standings.
In 2022, Antonelli contested full campaigns in both the Italian and ADAC Formula 4 Championships with Prema Racing. He dominated both series, clinching the Italian F4 title with 13 victories and the ADAC F4 crown with 11 wins. His performances established him as one of the most promising young talents in motorsport.
Formula Regional European Championship Success
Antonelli graduated to the Formula Regional European Championship (FREC) in 2023, once again racing with Prema Racing. He adapted quickly to the new category, securing multiple wins and podium finishes. In a closely contested season, Antonelli emerged victorious, claiming the FREC title in his rookie year.
Rapid Rise Through the Ranks
Following his success in FREC, Antonelli made the jump to the FIA Formula 2 Championship in 2024 with Prema Racing. Despite facing experienced competitors, he continued to impress, securing several wins and podium finishes throughout the season.
Antonelli’s rapid progression and consistent performances caught the attention of Mercedes’ Formula 1 team, and he was given the opportunity to participate in free practice sessions during the 2024 season.
Joining Mercedes in Formula 1
After an impressive junior career and strong showings in Formula 1 practice sessions, Andrea Kimi Antonelli was promoted to a race seat with Mercedes for the 2025 season. He will partner with George Russell, forming one of the most exciting young driver pairings on the grid.
As Antonelli prepares for his rookie Formula 1 season, expectations are high. His natural talent, work ethic, and the support of the Mercedes team make him a driver to watch in the coming years. With his determination and skill, Andrea Kimi Antonelli is poised to make a significant impact in the world of Formula 1 and carry on Italy’s rich motorsport heritage.