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

Tim Mayer Announces Candidacy for FIA Presidency: A New Era for Motorsport Governance
Formula 1

Tim Mayer Announces Candidacy for FIA Presidency: A New Era for Motorsport Governance

Tim Mayer, a seasoned motorsport official, announces his candidacy for the FIA presidency, challenging incumbent Mohammed Ben Sulayem in a bid to reshape the future of motorsport governance.

Nico Hulkenberg's Historic Podium: A Triumph After 239 Races
Formula 1

Nico Hulkenberg's Historic Podium: A Triumph After 239 Races

Nico Hulkenberg achieves his first F1 podium at the British Grand Prix after 239 races, marking a historic moment in his career.

Carlos Sainz Opts Out of FIA Presidency Race to Focus on Dakar Rally
Formula 1

Carlos Sainz Opts Out of FIA Presidency Race to Focus on Dakar Rally

Rally legend Carlos Sainz withdraws from the FIA presidency race, prioritizing his preparation for the Dakar Rally and commitment to Ford.

The Fall of Christian Horner: Inside Red Bull's Shocking Leadership Change
Formula 1

The Fall of Christian Horner: Inside Red Bull's Shocking Leadership Change

Explore the dramatic events leading to Christian Horner's departure from Red Bull and its impact on the team's future in Formula 1.

Lando Norris Triumphs at Silverstone: A Historic British Grand Prix Victory
Formula 1

Lando Norris Triumphs at Silverstone: A Historic British Grand Prix Victory

Lando Norris secures a thrilling victory at the British Grand Prix, marking a significant moment in his career and for McLaren at Silverstone.

Fionn McLaughlin: The Rising Star of Red Bull's Junior Academy
Formula 1

Fionn McLaughlin: The Rising Star of Red Bull's Junior Academy

Discover how Fionn McLaughlin, a young talent from Northern Ireland, is making waves in British F4 and aiming for Formula 1 glory with Red Bull's support.

2026 Formula 1 Driver Shake-Up: Who's at Risk of Losing Their Seat?
Formula 1

2026 Formula 1 Driver Shake-Up: Who's at Risk of Losing Their Seat?

Explore the potential driver changes in Formula 1 for 2026, focusing on who might lose their seat and the dynamics influencing these decisions.

Lewis Hamilton Struggles with Ferrari in Wet-Dry British Grand Prix
Formula 1

Lewis Hamilton Struggles with Ferrari in Wet-Dry British Grand Prix

Lewis Hamilton describes the Ferrari as 'unbelievably tricky to drive' in the wet-dry conditions at the British Grand Prix, finishing fourth at Silverstone.

Max Verstappen and George Russell: The Battle for Mercedes' Future in Formula 1
Formula 1

Max Verstappen and George Russell: The Battle for Mercedes' Future in Formula 1

Explore the dynamics between Max Verstappen, George Russell, and Mercedes as they navigate contract talks and future prospects in Formula 1.

Thrilling Six-Car Showdown Awaits at Silverstone British Grand Prix
Formula 1

Thrilling Six-Car Showdown Awaits at Silverstone British Grand Prix

The British Grand Prix at Silverstone promises a thrilling six-car battle for victory, featuring top drivers like Max Verstappen and Lando Norris.

From Tragedy to Triumph: Martin Donnelly's Inspiring Journey in Formula 1 and Hollywood
Formula 1

From Tragedy to Triumph: Martin Donnelly's Inspiring Journey in Formula 1 and Hollywood

Discover how Martin Donnelly's near-fatal crash inspired a Hollywood blockbuster and his enduring legacy in Formula 1.

Max Verstappen Secures Pole Position at Silverstone in Thrilling British Grand Prix Qualifying
Formula 1

Max Verstappen Secures Pole Position at Silverstone in Thrilling British Grand Prix Qualifying

Max Verstappen clinched pole position at the British Grand Prix, narrowly beating Oscar Piastri in a dramatic qualifying session at Silverstone.

George Russell Confirms Commitment to Mercedes Amid Verstappen Speculation
Formula 1

George Russell Confirms Commitment to Mercedes Amid Verstappen Speculation

George Russell reaffirms his commitment to Mercedes amidst rumors of Max Verstappen joining the team. Insights into the dynamics and future of F1's top drivers.

Lando Norris Clinches Maiden Silverstone Victory in Thrilling British Grand Prix
Formula 1

Lando Norris Clinches Maiden Silverstone Victory in Thrilling British Grand Prix

Lando Norris secures his first win at Silverstone in a dramatic, rain-affected British Grand Prix, narrowing the championship gap with teammate Oscar Piastri.

Could Mercedes Replace Russell with Verstappen? The Inside Scoop on F1's Hottest Rumor
Formula 1

Could Mercedes Replace Russell with Verstappen? The Inside Scoop on F1's Hottest Rumor

Explore the possibility of Mercedes replacing George Russell with Max Verstappen for the 2026 F1 season, and the implications for the team and drivers.

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.