Teen star Andrea Kimi Antonelli balances Formula 1 and school exams

Dominika Jordan
Apr 3, 2025, 04:11 AM ET

SUZUKA, Japan -- Teen Formula 1 sensation Andrea Kimi Antonelli has been successfully balancing his rookie season with the pressures of his high school exam season. The 18-year-old, who is in his final year at Salvemini di Casalecchio di Reno Technical Institute in Bologna, has impressively managed his elevation to F1 this season, replacing none other than Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes, while continuing his studies.

In an interview with the Fast and the Curious podcast, Antonelli shared his commitment to completing his education. "It would be a shame just to quit on the last year of school. And also, my mum cares about it, so I will do it for her as well," Antonelli expressed. Acknowledging the challenge, he mentioned, "I'm getting a lot of help from the school, I'm not going to lie, they're sending me stuff over but it's a big commitment."

During media day at Suzuka, ahead of Sunday's Japanese Grand Prix, Antonelli elaborated on how his school life has adapted to his newfound fame. "Yeah, definitely life at school has changed quite dramatically, I'm not going to lie," he said.

One of the key factors in maintaining his equilibrium has been the support from his school friends. Antonelli attributed much of his calmness during this high-pressure initiation into F1 to them. "I feel very lucky because my group of mates in my class, they've been treating me the same since last year's announcement," he noted. "So I'm really happy and I feel really lucky because we have such a good relationship that whenever we go home, we spend time together."

He added, "It's really cool they treat me the same way. They've been really supportive as well. It's also really good to have a group of friends outside racing because they really help you as well to disconnect and to enjoy life in general."

Antonelli speaks highly of the mental reprieve his friends provide. "Also they are some way to recharge too, especially on the mental side because when I'm with them, I rarely think... I still think a bit about racing, but not as much as I would, just because being with them takes a bit my focus away," he revealed.

"And it's nice because then when I go back in the car, I feel better on that side."

Andrea Kimi Antonelli's ability to balance the rigorous demands of Formula 1 with his academic obligations continues to showcase his determination and dedication, both on and off the track. The young star remains committed to excelling in all aspects of his life, driven by personal goals and the unwavering encouragement from his close-knit support system.