Kimi Antonelli Bio
Early Life and Background
Andrea Kimi Antonelli was born on 25 August 2006 in Bologna, Emilia-Romagna, Italy. He is the son of Marco Antonelli, a sportscar racing driver and owner of AKM Motorsport. Kimi has a younger sister named Maggie. His mother, Veronica Antonelli, has been involved in motorsport since 1997, assisting Marco in managing their racing team. Kimi’s early exposure to racing came through his father’s career, which sparked his passion for motorsport. He attended ITCS Gaetano Salvemini, where he studied international relations and marketing, and learned English during his racing weekends.
Kimi began karting at the age of seven, quickly making a name for himself by winning championships in various categories. His talent was recognized early on, and he was scouted by Giovanni Minardi, leading to a successful karting career that included back-to-back victories in the direct-drive European Championship in 2020 and 2021.
Path to Formula One
Kimi Antonelli’s journey to Formula One began with his debut in the Italian F4 Championship in 2021, where he drove for Prema Racing. He quickly established himself as a competitive driver, finishing as the highest-placed rookie in his first race. His performance continued to improve, culminating in a strong showing at Monza, where he secured multiple podiums. In 2022, Antonelli won titles in both the Italian and ADAC Formula 4 Championships, showcasing his potential as a rising star in motorsport.
In 2023, he claimed both the Formula Regional European and Middle East Championships, further solidifying his reputation. His impressive results led to a direct progression to FIA Formula 2 in 2024, where he continued to demonstrate his skill and determination, ultimately earning a seat with Mercedes in Formula One for the 2025 season.
Kimi Antonelli Career
Early Career (2021–2022)
Kimi Antonelli made his junior formula debut in the Italian F4 Championship in 2021, quickly gaining attention for his performances. He finished the season with four wins, placing him tenth overall despite missing several races. His breakout year came in 2022, where he dominated the Italian F4 Championship with a record thirteen victories, securing the championship title. He also competed in the ADAC Formula 4 Championship, winning multiple races and clinching the title with one race to spare.
Formula Regional Breakthrough (2023)
In 2023, Antonelli transitioned to the Formula Regional European Championship, where he continued to excel. He began the season with a strong performance in the Formula Regional Middle East Championship, winning multiple races and ultimately securing the championship title. His success in the European Championship followed, where he won several races, including at Spa-Francorchamps and Monza, leading to his championship victory. His impressive season earned him recognition as one of the top drivers in junior formulae.
Mercedes Era (2025–Present)
Kimi Antonelli signed with Mercedes for the 2025 Formula One season, replacing Lewis Hamilton. He made his debut at the Australian Grand Prix, becoming the third-youngest driver in Formula One history. Antonelli quickly made an impact, finishing fourth in his debut race and becoming the second-youngest points-scorer in the sport’s history. Throughout the season, he has shown consistent performance, achieving multiple podium finishes and setting records for the youngest driver to lead a race and to set a fastest lap.
Race Car Driver Style and Strengths
Antonelli is known for his aggressive driving style and strategic racecraft. His ability to adapt to changing conditions and make quick decisions on track has set him apart from his peers. As a member of the Mercedes Junior Team, he has access to top-tier resources and mentorship, further enhancing his development as a driver.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Kimi Antonelli’s career is marked by significant achievements, including championship titles in Italian F4, ADAC Formula 4, and Formula Regional European Championship. He has also made history as one of the youngest drivers to achieve podium finishes in Formula One, showcasing his potential as a future star in the sport.
Kimi Antonelli Career Wins
Kimi Antonelli has secured numerous victories across various racing series, establishing himself as a formidable competitor in motorsport.
Current Formula One Series Highlights
In the 2025 Formula One season, Antonelli has already achieved multiple podium finishes, including a notable third-place finish at the Canadian Grand Prix. His performance has positioned him as a key player in the championship standings, demonstrating his capability to compete at the highest level.
Previous Formula Regional Series Achievements
Antonelli’s success in the Formula Regional European Championship included five wins and multiple podiums, culminating in a championship title that highlighted his skill and determination as a driver.
Kimi Antonelli Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Kimi Antonelli comes from a family deeply rooted in motorsport. His father, Marco Antonelli, is a respected figure in the racing community, having competed in various championships and owning a racing team. This familial connection has provided Kimi with invaluable insights and support throughout his racing career.
Personal Life
Kimi Antonelli is currently in a relationship with Czech kart racer Eliška Bábíčková. He has expressed a passion for sports beyond racing, supporting local football and basketball teams in Bologna. Antonelli continues to balance his racing commitments with his education, studying online while competing at the highest levels of motorsport.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season has been a pivotal year for Kimi Antonelli, marking his debut in Formula One. He has shown remarkable consistency, achieving multiple top-six finishes and securing podiums. His ability to adapt to the challenges of Formula One has impressed both fans and team officials alike. As the season progresses, Antonelli is expected to continue building on his early successes, solidifying his place as a rising star in the sport.
