Andrea Kimi Antonelli has recently secured a remarkable third-place finish at the Canadian Grand Prix, marking his first podium in Formula 1 this season. At the same time, he has been managing significant academic responsibilities, completing major exams as he continues his schooling alongside his professional racing career. This dual achievement highlights Kimi Antonelli balancing racing and education with impressive dedication.
Support from Educators Highlights Antonelli’s Commitment to Learning
Antonelli’s commitment to education has caught the attention of Alessandra Regina, the coordinator of his class at the Salvemini di Casalecchio di Reno Technical Institute near Bologna. Regina praised Antonelli’s ability to maintain focus on his studies despite an intense sporting schedule. She shared,
“While Kimi Antonelli has always had lots of sporting commitments, he never lost sight of school and he never lost sight of the goal of taking his final exams,”
—Alessandra Regina, Class Coordinator
Regina expressed pride in Antonelli managing to keep pace with his peers academically while handling the pressures of Formula 1 racing. She noted,
“We are very happy and proud that Kimi is taking his final exams with his classmates,”
and added,
“He is a very humble boy and his classmates support him.”
—Alessandra Regina, Class Coordinator
Mercedes Team and Racing Achievements Underline Promising Season
Kimi Antonelli has stepped into the prominent role of replacing seven-time F1 champion Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes, racing alongside George Russell. The Brackley-based team is currently enjoying a solid season, sitting just behind McLaren in the constructors‘ championship after surpassing Ferrari, which encountered difficulties during the Canadian round.
Antonelli ranks seventh in the drivers‘ standings, trailing only 16 points behind Hamilton. His third-place finish at the Grand Prix was beneath Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, who finished second, and race winner George Russell, further establishing his reputation among top competitors.
Persistent Dedication to Education Amid Racing Duties
Antonelli’s teacher detailed how he remains invested in his studies by maintaining close contact despite the demanding race calendar. Regina revealed that he would often contact her for extra help, showing determination to succeed academically. She said,
“When he was travelling for Grands Prix he would call me or write to ask me questions, or he would come straight from the airport to class to have things explained to him again and then he would do the tests,”
and affirmed,
“He deserves to take his final exams and pass with flying colours.”
—Alessandra Regina, Class Coordinator
Antonelli’s Personal Motivation Rooted in Family and Commitment
Antonelli shared candidly that while the combination of schoolwork and racing is challenging, he values education deeply, particularly to honor his mother’s support. He said to The Fast and the Curious,
“I’m getting a lot of help from school, I’m not going to lie – they’re sending me stuff over, but it’s a big commitment,”
and continued,
“To be honest, I always say I don’t really want to do this, but when I think back it’s important as well.”
He added,
“I’ve been doing so many years of school and it would be a shame to just quit on the last year of school, and also my Mum really cares about it, so I will do it for her as well.”
—Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes Driver
Strong Bonds with Classmates and School Life Despite Racing Travel
The connection between Antonelli and his classmates remains strong, with his teacher sharing a touching interaction that illustrates his enthusiasm for school beyond its academic value. Regina recalled,
“He once said something beautiful to me: ‘I’m happy to go back to school and I’m happy to go back to school for my classmates’.”
She added,
“There’s a wonderful relationship between him and the other kids and they’re great because they support him.”
—Alessandra Regina, Class Coordinator
Further demonstrating his dedication to maintaining these ties, Antonelli invited his classmates to the paddock during the Imola race weekend and organized several activities to keep their bond alive. Reflecting on these efforts, Antonelli admitted,
“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.”
—Andrea Kimi Antonelli
Balancing Two Demanding Worlds Sets Antonelli Apart
Kimi Antonelli’s ability to juggle the intense demands of professional Formula 1 racing while pursuing his final school exams exemplifies exceptional discipline and resolve. This balance not only strengthens his personal development but also demonstrates to young athletes and students alike the value of perseverance and education.
As the season progresses, Antonelli’s ongoing growth both on the track and in the classroom suggests a promising future, with his achievements resonating beyond racing circuits. His dedication to finishing his education alongside building a formidable racing career will inspire many, highlighting the importance of commitment in multiple areas of life.
