Melbourne, Australia – March 17, 2025
At just 18 years old, Andrea Kimi Antonelli has made a sensational entrance into Formula 1, delivering an eye-catching performance at the Australian Grand Prix in his debut race for Mercedes. The Italian prodigy, long hailed as one of the most promising young talents in motorsport, wasted no time in proving he belongs among the elite.
Starting from 16th on the grid due to a tricky qualifying session, Antonelli showcased remarkable composure and racecraft. The unpredictable weather added another layer of difficulty, with intermittent rain making track conditions treacherous. Yet, the young driver handled the challenge with the confidence of a seasoned veteran.
One of the defining moments of his race came on lap 32, when he executed a daring overtake on two rivals in a single corner, drawing cheers from the crowd. As the race progressed, Antonelli continued to gain positions, avoiding mistakes that caught out even experienced drivers.
A late-race battle with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc saw Antonelli defending brilliantly, holding his position despite intense pressure. When the checkered flag waved, he crossed the line in fourth place—an extraordinary result for a debutant.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff was full of praise for Antonelli, describing the young driver’s race as “a masterclass in adaptability and raw talent.”
“What we saw today was a young driver stepping up when it mattered most,” Wolff stated. “Kimi showed incredible maturity, strategic awareness, and racing instinct beyond his years. This is just the beginning of something special.”
Teammate George Russell, who finished on the podium, also commended Antonelli’s performance. “For a first F1 race, that was seriously impressive. He stayed calm, made smart moves, and didn’t let the pressure get to him,” Russell said.
