There has only ever been one driver named 'Kimi' in Formula 1, but the forename could soon enjoy another spell of success in Grand Prix racing, thanks to Mercedes.
Italian hopeful Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who joined the German manufacturer’s junior programme as a young karter in 2019, will step up to the FIA Formula 2 Championship in 2024 with front-running outfit Prema.
In 2021, Antonelli dovetailed his karting campaign with nine races in the Italian F4 Championship before graduating full time to cars in 2022 and winning the Italian F4 and ADAC Formula 4 Championships
This season, the 17-year-old kicked off his year with another title in the Middle East Formula Regional series before sealing the Drivers’ title in the Formula Regional European Championship at Zandvoort with two races to spare.
The Italian racer will get his first taste of F2 when he joins Prema for the series’ post-season test at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi.
"I'm very happy for this opportunity," says the young gun. "From Formula Regional to Formula 2, it will be a huge jump. I'm aware that it will be very challenging because the level is really high there.
"It will be a new car, for me and the others as well but it's still going to be tough.
©Mercedes
“I don't want to set expectations, I will try to learn as much as possible in testing to be ready for the first race, have fun as always, and do a good job.
"I'm delighted to continue with Prema as I started my single-seater career with them and they are my second family and I love working with them."
Antonelli has been mentored by Mercedes talent-spotter Gwen Lagrue who looks after the team's juniors. But it is understood that Toto Wolff has been personally tracking Antonelli’s success.
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