Mercedes Rookie Antonelli Debuts Home F1 Race Emilia-Romagna

Kimi Antonelli, the 18-year-old Mercedes Formula 1 driver, is racing at his home Grand Prix in Emilia-Romagna, Italy, and has invited his family and school friends to experience the F1 environment firsthand. He recently celebrated his hometown Bologna's first soccer trophy in 51 years while balancing race preparations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining personal connections despite his demanding schedule. Antonelli, who replaced Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes last year and was the youngest pole-sitter in Miami, expressed excitement and pressure about competing in front of the local crowd, aiming for his first career podium. He described the Imola track as challenging and fun, acknowledging the emotional and mental demands of a home race and stressing the need to manage his energy carefully throughout the weekend. A handwritten note from Hamilton in his motorhome room adds a personal touch to his experience. This week marks a significant milestone for Antonelli as he becomes the first Italian to race at Imola since 2021, with a Netflix documentary highlighting his rapid ascent in F1.