Teen sensation Antonelli invites classmates to Imola ahead of home Grand Prix
Andrea Kimi Antonelli Brings High School Classmates to F1 Paddock at Imola
Mercedes’ rising star, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, brought his high school classmates into the world of Formula 1 ahead of his maiden Italian Grand Prix at Imola. The 18-year-old, who is juggling the demands of his rookie season and final high school exams, extended an invitation to his classmates to visit the paddock, offering them a glimpse of life in motorsport’s premier category.
A Homecoming at Imola
Antonelli, born and raised in Bologna, Italy, showcased his roots by welcoming his peers from the Salvemini di Casalecchio di Reno Technical Institute to the iconic Imola Circuit. Located just a stone’s throw from his hometown, the visit was organized in conjunction with Mercedes, and 25 classmates along with their teachers joined him at the track on Thursday.
A Special Visit
Speaking at the pre-race press conference, the Italian explained the significance of the visit:
"Yeah, I organized this — thanks also to some people at Mercedes. We were able to organize this for the school," Antonelli said. "I think it's a good way for them to see with their own eyes this world.
"They used to watch the races on TV, but didn't actually know what's going on behind it. I think it's a really good experience, and I really hope they enjoy it.
"We've organized some activities — later on I’ll show them the car and explain a bit, without going too much into detail. It’s a good way to keep the relationship because I don’t spend much time at home, so I don’t see them often. These little things can make the difference."
Stepping Into the Spotlight
Antonelli stepped into the spotlight this season, replacing seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes following Hamilton’s sensational move to Ferrari. His debut as Italy’s first F1 driver since Antonio Giovinazzi in 2021 has ignited enthusiasm across the country, with expectations riding high as he takes on the historic track at Imola.
Home Support vs. Ferrari’s Legacy
As he prepares for the weekend, the local favorite reflected on the support he might receive compared to Ferrari—a team revered as a near-religion in Italy, headquartered just across Bologna in Maranello. Asked whether he thought there’d be more Antonelli flags than Ferrari flags in the crowd, the 18-year-old chuckled.
"Well, I don't know. Hopefully more Kimi Antonelli!" he said with a smile. "But yeah, Ferrari is so big that it would be a bit ambitious to see more of my flags. But I would not complain."
Balancing School and Formula 1
Antonelli's unique combination of F1 debutant and high school student—chasing glory both on the track and in the classroom—has captured the imagination of fans back home. Now, with his classmates cheering him on at Imola, the teenager looks to cement his place as one of Italy's brightest motorsport hopes.
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