Kimi Antonelli

Kimi Antonelli drives car #12 for Mercedes in 2026, hand-picked to replace Lewis Hamilton after a rapid rise through junior single-seaters that saw him win the 2022 Italian F4 championship and the 2023 Formula Regional European Championship, both with dominant margins. Born Andrea Kimi Antonelli in Bologna on August 25, 2006, he was one of the youngest drivers to earn an F1 seat through sheer pace in the feeder series.

Antonelli's junior career was exceptional. Mercedes signed him to their junior programme early, recognizing a generational talent with the speed and adaptability to thrive at the highest level. He finished sixth in the 2024 Formula 2 championship, but his raw speed — including multiple pole positions and feature race victories — convinced Mercedes he was ready for promotion. His pathway through Mercedes' development system was the fastest in the team's history.

For 2026, Antonelli enters his second season with Mercedes, partnering team leader George Russell. His rookie year provided crucial experience, and the new regulations give every driver a fresh start as the entire grid adapts to unfamiliar machinery. His raw speed has never been questioned, and a full season of F1 experience should bring the consistency that can elude young drivers in their first year.

Antonelli carries the hopes of Italian motorsport. The nation that produced Ascari, Monza's famous tifosi, and decades of Ferrari passion has been waiting for a homegrown star capable of challenging at the front. His aggressive driving style and willingness to commit to bold overtaking moves make him one of the most exciting drivers to watch on the current grid.

Italian fans are well-served by the 2026 calendar. The home race at Monza for the Italian Grand Prix in September starts at 14:00 CEST, and the European-heavy schedule means most rounds fall in comfortable afternoon viewing windows. Check Italy time for timezone conversions throughout the season.

At just 19, Antonelli has time on his side. The question for 2026 is how quickly he can translate undeniable speed into consistent results, and whether the Mercedes W17 can provide the platform for him to challenge further up the grid.