Antonelli's Grueling F1 Driving Test Week: A Rookie's Road to Glory

Andrea Kimi Antonelli, the young F1 rookie set to partner George Russell at Mercedes in the 2025 season, recently opened up about his strenuous week preparing for his driving test. Despite the high stakes, Antonelli managed to pass on his first attempt, albeit with minor hiccups.

The Driving Test Challenge Antonelli described the week leading up to his driving test as "like hell," filled with intense studying and practicing. "I was really nervous, first of all," he admitted. "That week was like hell because I was really studying and practicing because I knew I only had that shot. The preparations start and then the season starts and I had no time to do the driving test again. So I was super happy to have passed straight away."

While he made "one little mistake" on his theory test, it was within the allowed limits. This allowed him to focus on the practical aspects of the test, which he passed successfully. This achievement is crucial for Antonelli, as F1 drivers must hold a super licence granted by the FIA, in addition to being at least 18 years old.

Transition to F1 with Mercedes Antonelli’s journey to F1 has been marked by his long-standing association with Mercedes, having been a protege since he was 11. Replacing Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, Antonelli faces immense pressure but remains focused on his upcoming challenges.

Peer Experiences Oliver Bearman, another rookie starting his first full F1 campaign in 2025, shared his own test experience. Bearman humorously recounted failing his first test by not stopping at a 'stop' sign. "I passed second time and I shouldn't have said that," Bearman joked. "I didn't stop at a 'stop' sign. I didn't burn through, I slowed down and I was crawling but you are supposed to stop. We don't have 'stop' signs at a race track so that was my first sighting of a 'stop' sign."

Looking Ahead The first grand prix of the 24-race calendar kicks off in Melbourne from 14-16 March, where all 10 teams and 20 drivers, including Antonelli and Bearman, will showcase their new liveries at the F1 75 live show in London.

As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on these rookies to see how they adapt to the high-speed and high-pressure world of Formula 1.