Rising Star Andrea Kimi Antonelli Passes Key Driving Test Ahead of F1 Debut

At just 18, Mercedes' Andrea Kimi Antonelli celebrates a milestone as he prepares for his debut in Formula 1.

Andrea Kimi Antonelli, the promising 18-year-old driver from the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team, has successfully passed his driving test, a significant milestone just six weeks before he is set to make his Formula 1 debut at the prestigious Australian Grand Prix. This achievement marks an important step in his journey as he takes over from legendary seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, pairing with fellow driver George Russell for the upcoming season.

Having turned 18 last August, Antonelli meets the minimum age requirement for driving on Italian roads. In a celebratory post shared on social media, Mercedes triumphantly declared, "Mission completed," alongside images depicting Antonelli flashing a thumbs-up from the driver's seat of a training vehicle. This moment reflects both his successful acquisition of a standard driving license and the all-important super-licence, which is essential for competing in Formula 1.

In preparation for this significant career leap, Antonelli has already logged numerous miles on the track, gaining invaluable experience behind the wheel of an F1 car. The young talent will have the opportunity to further hone his skills during the three-day pre-season testing session scheduled for Bahrain from February 26 to 28, where he will share the testing duties with Russell. As anticipation builds, fans and experts alike are eager to see what this rising star will deliver as he steps into the world of elite motorsport.

With the spotlight on him, Andrea Kimi Antonelli is poised to become a key figure in Formula 1, embodying the spirit of youth and determination in a sport renowned for its speed and precision.

What to Read Next

The Legendary Jochen Mass: F1 and Le Mans Champion Passes Away at 78
Formula 1

The Legendary Jochen Mass: F1 and Le Mans Champion Passes Away at 78

Jochen Mass, a renowned F1 and Le Mans winner, has died at 78. His career was remarkable.

Oscar Piastri's Triumphant Victory in Saudi Arabia Shakes Up the Formula 1 Championship
Formula 1

Oscar Piastri's Triumphant Victory in Saudi Arabia Shakes Up the Formula 1 Championship

Oscar Piastri wins in Saudi Arabia, takes championship lead. McLaren dominates.

General Motors' Triumphant Entry into F1 Engine Supply in 2029
Formula 1

General Motors' Triumphant Entry into F1 Engine Supply in 2029

General Motors wins F1 engine approval for 2029. Cadillac to debut as a team next year.

The Legendary Lotus of Senna: The Epitome of F1 Beauty
Formula 1

The Legendary Lotus of Senna: The Epitome of F1 Beauty

Bruno Senna on his uncle Ayrton's Lotus and its significance in F1 history.

Lewis Hamilton's Struggles in Formula 1: Saudi GP and Beyond
Formula 1

Lewis Hamilton's Struggles in Formula 1: Saudi GP and Beyond

Lewis Hamilton had a rough time in the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and is worried about the future.

FIA Executive Reid's Resignation Shakes Motorsport World
Formula 1

FIA Executive Reid's Resignation Shakes Motorsport World

Robert Reid resigns from FIA over governance issues, causing a stir in the motorsport world.

Lando Norris's Struggles and Recovery Hopes in Saudi Arabian Grand Prix
Formula 1

Lando Norris's Struggles and Recovery Hopes in Saudi Arabian Grand Prix

Lando Norris reflects on his qualifying crash and aims for recovery in the race.

Max Verstappen's Relaxed Outlook Amid Red Bull Challenges in Formula 1
Formula 1

Max Verstappen's Relaxed Outlook Amid Red Bull Challenges in Formula 1

Max Verstappen is relaxed about his future with Red Bull despite early season difficulties.

Malcolm Wilson Nominated as FIA Deputy President for Sport: A New Era Awaits
Formula 1

Malcolm Wilson Nominated as FIA Deputy President for Sport: A New Era Awaits

Malcolm Wilson nominated as new FIA deputy president for sport. FIA faces challenges.

Max Verstappen Grabs Saudi GP Pole Amidst Norris' Crash Drama
Formula 1

Max Verstappen Grabs Saudi GP Pole Amidst Norris' Crash Drama

Max Verstappen claims pole at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix after Lando Norris' crash.

Piastri's Triumphant Victory and Russell's Tenacious Hold in Bahrain Grand Prix
Formula 1

Piastri's Triumphant Victory and Russell's Tenacious Hold in Bahrain Grand Prix

Oscar Piastri dominated in the Bahrain Grand Prix, while George Russell held on to second.

Lando Norris' Struggles and Adaptations in Formula 1 Season 2025
Formula 1

Lando Norris' Struggles and Adaptations in Formula 1 Season 2025

Lando Norris reveals challenges in driving and adapting for better performance in F1 2025.

Pierre Gasly Tops Lando Norris in Saudi Arabian Grand Prix First Practice
Formula 1

Pierre Gasly Tops Lando Norris in Saudi Arabian Grand Prix First Practice

Alpine's Pierre Gasly led McLaren's Lando Norris in the first practice of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.

Is Oscar Piastri on the Road to the Formula 1 Drivers' Title?
Formula 1

Is Oscar Piastri on the Road to the Formula 1 Drivers' Title?

Analysis on whether Oscar Piastri is favorite for the F1 drivers' title.

Sergio Perez's Potential Comeback to Formula 1: Talks and Hopes
Formula 1

Sergio Perez's Potential Comeback to Formula 1: Talks and Hopes

Sergio Perez has held talks about an F1 return. Will he make it?

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.