Andrea Kimi Antonelli, the young promise of motorsports, extended a special invitation to his classmates to accompany him in the Imola paddock, on the eve of the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix. This event marks his first Formula 1 race on Italian soil.
Antonelli, at 18, combines his debut season in F1 with his final exams, a decision that had the support of his mother.
Sunday’s race will take place at the Imola circuit, very close to Bologna, the hometown and place of study of Antonelli at the Salvemini di Casalecchio di Reno Technical Institute.
Thanks to Mercedes’ invitation, 25 of her classmates and two teachers joined him at the circuit on Thursday, to immerse themselves in his other world.
“Yes, I organized this, thanks also to some people from Mercedes. We were able to organize this for the school,” commented Antonelli during Thursday’s press conference. “I think it’s a good way for them to see this world with their own eyes.”
Andrea Kimi Antonelli
Antonelli added that his colleagues used to watch the races on television, but were unaware of what was happening behind the scenes. He highlighted that this experience would be very valuable and hopes they enjoy it.
The pilot explained that some activities have been organized, including the car presentation and a detailed explanation, without going into too much detail. He considers these initiatives to be key to maintaining the relationship with his friends, since due to his busy schedule, he doesn’t spend much time at home.
This year, the Italian took over from Lewis Hamilton, who joined Ferrari.
Imola is located near Maranello, home to Ferrari, a team with a large following in Italy.
Antonelli is the first Italian to compete in Formula 1 since Antonio Giovinazzi in 2021, and his debut has generated great expectation in his country.
When asked if he expected to see more Antonelli or Ferrari flags at the circuit this weekend, the young driver replied with a smile:
“Well, I don’t know. Hopefully more from Kimi Antonelli! But yes, Ferrari is so big that it would be a bit ambitious to see more flags of mine. But I wouldn’t complain.”
Andrea Kimi Antonelli
