Engineer Sara Giusti talked about how Italian Formula 1 Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli (19) got his driver’s license.
The second-youngest driver ever to win a Formula 1 Grand Prix did not hold a driving license until last year. Andrea Kimi Antonelli made his Formula 1 debut at the Melbourne circuit in March 2025, just weeks after passing the practical test in a Volkswagen Golf with a manual transmission, dual pedals and a huge ‘driving school’ sticker on the front door.
“When he presented himself at the Motor Vehicle Office in San Marino, he was extremely nervous. He had studied the rules from the books, but the exam is a hurdle for everyone. Before starting the road test, he had to pass the theory test. He got one question wrong about the position lights. After all, on the track, GOING at races; you don’t have to stop”, says Sara Giusti, who examined it.
“Kimi had trained in his aunt’s car and his father Marco’s van. He is not used to driving manual transmission cars. It was the end of January 2025, very close to its official debut in Australia.
I asked him how long the runway was in Melbourne. He answered confidently: “Five kilometers”. And I told him: «Then we will cover the same distance here, in San Marino». It was a bit like a dress rehearsal before his F1 debut. Kimi is a shy, polite and calm boy.
During the driving test, he did not hesitate at all. The route was simple: up, down and a back parking spot. He didn’t press the accelerator, on the contrary. He was a little clumsy with the gearshift and pedals, but very careful to obey the speed limits.
I have to admit that during a few overtaking manoeuvres, he forgot to signal. I got his attention right away: “I know your job is to overtake other drivers, but remember you have to signal on the road.” It was corrected immediately“, says Sara.
