Andrea Kimi Antonelli, a rookie Formula 2 driver, is one of the most wanted drivers in the young drivers market and is speculated to join the Formula 1 Mercedes team in the 2025 season. So who is this young Formula 2 prodigy?
Kimi Antonelli in Formula 2
Kimi Antonelli joined Formula 2 in 2024 and has become one of the most popular drivers on the grid. However, his accomplishments have stemmed far before reaching this height.
The 17-year-old had a challenging season, and despite that, he achieved several notable accomplishments. At Silverstone, he secured his first Formula 2 podium and victory by winning the sprint race in wet conditions, showcasing his skill and resilience.
He further demonstrated his potential by taking his first feature race win in Budapest from seventh on the grid, thanks to a well-timed safety car and strategic pit stop. These victories marked significant milestones in his Formula 2 career, highlighting his ability to capitalise on opportunities and perform under pressure.
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Currently, he stands seventh in the Formula 2 championship as a rookie, with two wins already to his name halfway through the season.
With even 7-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton commenting on his replacement at Mercedes, he ensured to mention the young Italian as one of the upcoming talents:
“Honestly, I have no idea what Toto [Wolff]’s plans are, but for me, taking on a youngster, I would probably take on Kimi.”
Kimi Antonelli: Skipping the steps to reach the pinnacles of motorsport
Antonelli started his karting journey at the young age of seven and has had multiple successes. Eventually, in 2021, he raced in the Italian F4 Championship, followed by stints in the F4 UAE Championship, ADAC F4 Championship, and Formula Regional Middle East Championship.
However, he gained his fame and popularity from his Formula Regional European Championship driver’s championship title.
Eventually, in 2024, he joined one of the highest ranks of motorsports, FIA Formula 2, skipping Formula 3 completely. He is currently racing with Prema Racing alongside Ferrari Academy driver Oliver Bearman.
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Ties with the Mercedes Team
Kimi Antonelli became a part of the Mercedes Junior Team in 2019, and ever since then has been one of the strongest drivers in his category.
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In recent months, the Italian has participated in tests for Mercedes, which saw him drive the team’s 2021 car at the Red Bull Ring, Austria, in April before also driving the 2022 Challenger at Imola before the Imola Grand Prix in May.
When asked about Antonelli’s rapid ascension, Mercedes Engineering Director Andrew Shovlin commented:
“His speed is the main thing. He’s gone through the series very, very quickly. It wasn’t long ago that he was driving go-karts; he’s now in F2, and he’s testing an F1 car with us. He’s got a very impressive CV for someone so young, and no doubt he’ll have a bright future. But he looks like one of those naturally gifted talents that everyone’s trying to find.”
It is needless to say Antonelli has a bright future with huge support from teams as well as fans. Whilst also noting his talent with his already extensive record of trophies and accomplishments at the young age of 17.
Rohit Kumar