Italian driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli has achieved a remarkable balance between his burgeoning Formula 1 career and academic responsibilities, successfully securing his first podium finish at the Canadian Grand Prix while simultaneously completing a crucial final exam. This accomplishment highlights Antonelli balancing racing and final exams as he strides forward in both arenas with dedication and humility.
Teacher Praises Antonelli’s Commitment to Education
Alessandra Regina, coordinator at the Salvemini di Casalecchio di Reno Technical Institute near Bologna where Antonelli studies, has expressed admiration for the young driver’s ability to maintain focus on his education despite demanding racing commitments. Regina emphasized his ability to remain grounded amid his sporting success.
While Kimi Antonelli has always had lots of sporting commitments, he never lost sight of school and he never lost sight of the goal of taking his final exams,
she told ANSA news agency.
Regina further highlighted Antonelli’s humility and the encouragement he receives from his classmates.
We are very happy and proud that Kimi is taking his final exams with his classmates,
she noted.
He is a very humble boy and his classmates support him.
Kimi Antonelli’s Racing Progress and Team Standing
Antonelli has stepped into a prominent role by replacing seven-time F1 champion Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes, partnering with George Russell in a season that has seen notable achievements for the Brackley-based team. Mercedes currently sits behind McLaren in the Constructors’ Championship after surpassing Ferrari following the Canadian Grand Prix difficulties faced by the Italian outfit.
In the Drivers’ Championship, Antonelli is positioned seventh, trailing Hamilton by just 16 points. His third-place finish in Canada followed race winner and teammate Russell and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, strengthening Mercedes’ competitive form.
Ongoing Dedication Despite Racing Commitments
Antonelli’s teacher revealed that he remains deeply involved with his coursework, frequently contacting her for assistance during race weekends and even traveling straight from airports to school to attend classes or complete tests.
When he was travelling for Grands Prix he would call me or write to ask me questions, or he would come straight from the airport to class to have things explained to him again and then he would do the tests,
Regina shared.
He deserves to take his final exams and pass with flying colours.
Antonelli’s Motivation Tied to Family and Personal Goals
For Antonelli, the decision to continue his education through racing season is motivated not only by personal ambition but also by his mother’s support and encouragement. He candidly acknowledged the challenge but underscored the importance of completing his school journey.
I’m getting a lot of help from school, I’m not going to lie – they’re sending me stuff over, but it’s a big commitment,
he said in an interview with The Fast and the Curious.
To be honest, I always say I don’t really want to do this, but when I think back it’s important as well.
I’ve been doing so many years of school and it would be a shame to just quit on the last year of school, and also my Mum really cares about it, so I will do it for her as well.
Strong Bonds with Classmates Despite Busy Schedule
Antonelli has formed a close connection with his fellow students, who have shown great support for him throughout this demanding period. His teacher shared a touching remark made by Antonelli, revealing a genuine affection for his school community.
She recalled,
“He once said something beautiful to me: ‘I’m happy to go back to school and I’m happy to go back to school for my classmates’.”
There’s a wonderful relationship between him and the other kids and they’re great because they support him.
During the Imola race weekend, Antonelli invited several classmates to visit the Mercedes paddock, organizing activities to maintain his connection with them, acknowledging the limited time he can spend at home.
It’s a good way to keep the relationship because I don’t spend much time at home, so I don’t see them often,
he admitted.
Continuing to Grow On and Off the Track
Kimi Antonelli’s ability to juggle the pressures of Formula 1 racing and final year schooling underscores his maturity and determination. As he advances in both his academic and professional racing goals, Antonelli sets an inspiring example for young athletes striving to balance multiple commitments.
With Mercedes gaining ground in the Constructors’ Championship and Antonelli holding a competitive position among drivers, the coming months will be critical for both his racing career and academic achievements. His continued perseverance reflects a promising future shaped by both talent and hard work.