Teen Racing Star Andrea Kimi Antonelli Invites Classmates to Imola

IMOLA, Italy — Andrea Kimi Antonelli, the 18-year-old racing sensation with Mercedes, invited his entire class to experience the thrill of Formula 1 at the Imola circuit ahead of the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, Antonelli’s first race in Italy.

Born and raised in Bologna, Antonelli’s mother insisted on the unique outing. On Thursday, 25 classmates and two teachers joined him in the paddock for an inside look at his racing world.

“Yeah, I organised this — thanks also to some people at Mercedes. We were able to organise this for the school,” Antonelli said during a press conference. “I think it’s a good way for them to see with their own eyes this world. They used to watch the races on TV, but didn’t actually know what’s going on behind it. I hope they enjoy it.”

The rookie driver, who replaced seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, emphasized the importance of maintaining connections with his classmates. “It’s a good way to keep the relationship because I don’t spend much time at home. These little things can make the difference,” he added.

Antonelli’s debut has generated enthusiasm among fans, as he is the first Italian in Formula 1 since Antonio Giovinazzi in 2021. ”I don’t know how many flags there will be, but hopefully more of mine!” he joked, referencing the intense rivalry with Ferrari, the iconic Italian team.

While many celebrated his gesture, former F1 champion Jacques Villeneuve raised concerns about distractions affecting Antonelli’s focus. Villeneuve advised, “You shouldn’t do that. You should focus on racing. It had an effect on him yesterday, but he seems better today.”

Despite the excitement, Antonelli is balancing the demands of his racing career with studying for his Italian high school diploma, the Maturita. “I’m trying to study as much as I can in my free moments,” he explained.

As he prepares for this high-stakes weekend, Antonelli acknowledged the emotional toll of racing close to home, but he remains optimistic about the positive energy from the crowd. “I’m really looking forward to seeing how we go this weekend,” he concluded.