F1 Paddock Is Not New To Rookie Marcedes Kimi Antonelli

Kimi Antonelli has known the F1 paddock since she was a child (VOI/Karisa Aurelia Tukan).

JAKARTA - Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli has shared a funny story behind her first visit to the Formula 1 paddock with tires, trolleys and umbrellas that all play a role.

Antonelli is preparing to make his F1 debut with the Silver Arrows after a season in last year's F2 feeder championship.

Combined with his regular presence in the Mercedes garage, it means the 18-year-old is familiar with the many circuits and paddocks he will visit until his F1 debut season in 2025.

However, while most young riders do not feel the F1 paddock until they rise to F3 or F2 levels, Antonelli's first visit actually occurs when he is only seven years old.

"It happened in Hockenheim in 2014. I couldn't get into the paddock because I was too small."

"My father decided to hide me in a pile of tires and push me with a trolley."

"We put an umbrella on it so I wouldn't be seen! I managed to get into the pit lane and my father's friend gave me permission."

"I looked around for an hour and it was a very exciting experience, but we were always laughing at the story of the trolley," Antonelli said in an interview for Mercedes team's official website, with his father, Marco, who raced in the Porsche Supercup series while still active.

Meanwhile, Antonelli has visited a number of racing tracks across Europe and beyond. There are some that stand out for the young Italian racer so far.

"I really like Imola and Mugello, both are great tracks. Imola is about 30 minutes from my house, and Mugello is about 50 minutes away."

"I also fell in love with Silverstone, the first time I was driving there. Passing Maggotts, Badminton, Chapel, and Badminton was amazing with the F1 car, making me silent."

"Monaco, which I really enjoyed last year in F2. The focus you need, especially on one round speed, is incredible," said Antonelli again.

Mercedes will launch Antonelli's first F1 car on February 24, 2025, followed by pre-season trials at the Bahrain International Circuit from 26-28 February 2025.