Overview

• Kimi Antonelli, 18, is set to race in his first Formula 1 home Grand Prix at Imola, representing Mercedes after succeeding Lewis Hamilton.
• He is the first Italian driver in Formula 1 since Antonio Giovinazzi in 2021, reigniting national excitement for the sport in Italy.
• Antonelli invited 25 classmates and two teachers to the paddock for a behind-the-scenes experience to maintain connections with his hometown community.
• Ahead of the race, he celebrated his hometown soccer club Bologna's first trophy in 51 years, reflecting the cultural significance of the weekend.
• The rookie draws motivation from a personal message from Lewis Hamilton while emphasizing the need to manage energy during the emotionally and physically demanding weekend.