Kimi Antonelli age has become one of the most searched terms in Formula 1 as this Italian racing prodigy continues to make history with Mercedes-AMG Petronas.
Born on August 25, 2006, Kimi Antonelli is currently 19 years old as of 2026, making him one of the youngest drivers to compete in Formula 1’s elite championship.
His remarkable journey from karting champion to Lewis Hamilton’s replacement at Mercedes represents one of motorsport’s most impressive success stories, capturing global attention and redefining what’s possible for teenage drivers in the world’s most prestigious racing series.
At just 19, Antonelli has already achieved what many drivers spend decades pursuing—a coveted seat with a championship-winning team, multi-million dollar contracts, and recognition as one of F1’s brightest future stars.
His meteoric rise through junior categories, combined with his mature driving style and exceptional racecraft, has drawn comparisons to legendary drivers and positioned him as a potential future world champion.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything about Kimi Antonelli in 2026, including his exact age and early life, impressive net worth and Mercedes salary, complete racing career journey, relationship with girlfriend Eliska Babickova, and the fascinating facts that make him one of Formula 1’s most exciting young talents.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts About Kimi Antonelli
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Andrea Kimi Antonelli |
| Date of Birth | August 25, 2006 |
| Age (2026) | 19 years old |
| Birthplace | Bologna, Italy |
| Nationality | Italian |
| Zodiac Sign | Virgo |
| Profession | Formula 1 Racing Driver |
| Current Team | Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team |
| Car Number | #12 |
| Height | 5 feet 8 inches (172 cm) |
| Weight | 64 kg (141 lbs) |
| Father | Marco Antonelli (former karting driver) |
| Net Worth (2026) | $5 million |
| Annual Salary | $4 million (2026 contract) |
| Girlfriend | Eliska Babickova |
| @kimi.antonelli (3.9M followers) | |
| Career Start | 2014 (karting) |
| F1 Debut | 2025 Australian Grand Prix |
| Championships | Italian F4, ADAC F4, Formula Regional titles |
Kimi Antonelli Age and Early Life

How Old is Kimi Antonelli in 2026?
Kimi Antonelli is 19 years old as of 2026, having been born on August 25, 2006, in Bologna, Italy.
His birth date makes him a Virgo, a zodiac sign associated with precision, analytical thinking, and attention to detail—traits that perfectly align with the meticulous nature required for Formula 1 racing.
At 19 years and 7 months old when the 2026 season begins in March, Antonelli represents the new generation of exceptionally young F1 talent that’s reshaping the sport’s traditional age expectations.
His age becomes particularly significant when considering he’s the third-youngest driver in Formula 1 history to compete in the championship, following only Max Verstappen (17 years) and Lance Stroll (18 years).
Unlike many drivers who spend years in junior categories waiting for F1 opportunities, Antonelli’s rapid progression demonstrates both his exceptional talent and Mercedes’ confidence in youth development.
Childhood in Bologna, Italy
Born and raised in Bologna, Italy, Kimi grew up in a motorsport-oriented family with his father Marco Antonelli being a former competitive karting driver.
This racing heritage provided Kimi with immediate access to karting circuits and expert guidance from an early age. Bologna’s rich automotive culture, being just 40 kilometers from Maranello (Ferrari’s headquarters) and Modena (birthplace of numerous Italian motorsport legends), created the perfect environment for nurturing racing talent.
His childhood was dominated by weekends at karting tracks across Italy and Europe, where he developed the fundamental skills that would later translate into Formula 1 success.
Unlike typical teenagers focused on school sports or video games, young Kimi dedicated virtually every spare moment to improving his racecraft, studying racing lines, and competing against older, more experienced drivers.
Family Background and Support System
Kimi’s father Marco played an instrumental role in his racing career, leveraging his own karting experience to coach young Kimi through the early developmental stages.
Marco’s understanding of racing psychology, technical setup, and competitive strategy provided advantages that many young drivers lack.
The Antonelli family made significant financial and personal sacrifices to support Kimi’s racing dreams, traveling across Europe for competitions and investing in equipment, training, and coaching.
While his mother’s details remain relatively private, she has been spotted at several of Kimi’s races, providing emotional support during the intense pressures of professional motorsport. The close-knit family dynamic has helped Kimi maintain grounded perspective despite the overwhelming fame and pressure that comes with being a teenage F1 driver at Mercedes.
Educational Journey
Balancing education with professional racing presented challenges throughout Kimi’s teenage years. Italian regulations require schooling through age 16, which Kimi completed while simultaneously competing in junior formula championships.
His education likely followed flexible or distance-learning formats that accommodated extensive racing travel schedules spanning multiple continents.
After turning 16, Kimi focused entirely on racing career development, a common path for drivers showing clear Formula 1 potential.
While he may lack traditional university education, his specialized knowledge in vehicle dynamics, racecraft, physical training, and media management represents a unique educational path suited specifically for elite motorsport.
Physical Appearance and Fitness

Height, Weight, and Body Statistics
Kimi Antonelli stands at 5 feet 8 inches (172 centimeters) tall with a competition weight of approximately 64 kilograms (141 pounds).
These measurements place him in the ideal range for Formula 1 drivers, where height and weight significantly impact car design, weight distribution, and overall performance.
Modern F1 regulations include minimum weight requirements that account for driver size, preventing unfair advantages for lighter drivers while ensuring taller drivers aren’t penalized.
His lean, athletic physique results from rigorous training programs specifically designed for F1’s extreme physical demands. During races, drivers experience sustained G-forces exceeding 5Gs during braking and cornering, requiring exceptional neck, core, and overall body strength. Kimi’s body composition features minimal body fat percentage (likely 8-10%) with developed muscle groups in areas critical for F1 performance.
Distinctive Physical Features
Kimi possesses youthful facial features that often surprise people meeting him for the first time, given his professional accomplishments.
His dark hair, typically kept short for comfort inside racing helmets, and Italian complexion reflect his Mediterranean heritage. His expressive brown eyes convey the intensity and focus required for racing at the highest level.
Despite his young age, Kimi projects maturity in public appearances, press conferences, and team interactions. His confident body language and articulate communication style belie his teenage years, demonstrating emotional intelligence developed through years of competitive pressure.
F1 Fitness Requirements
Maintaining peak physical condition represents a non-negotiable requirement for modern Formula 1 success. Kimi’s training regimen likely includes:
- Cardiovascular Training: Running, cycling, and swimming to build endurance for 2-hour races in extreme heat and physical stress.
- Neck Strengthening: Specialized exercises using weighted helmets and resistance bands to withstand the intense G-forces that strain neck muscles during braking and cornering.
- Core Development: Extensive abdominal and lower back work to maintain stable seating position and control during high-speed maneuvering.
- Reaction Training: Hand-eye coordination drills, simulator work, and reflex exercises to maintain the split-second decision-making required in wheel-to-wheel racing.
- Flexibility Work: Stretching and mobility exercises to prevent injury and maintain comfort during extended periods in the confined F1 cockpit.
- Heat Adaptation: Training in elevated temperatures and humidity to prepare for races in challenging climates like Singapore, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.
Kimi Antonelli Net Worth 2026
Estimated Net Worth: $5 Million
As of 2026, Kimi Antonelli’s net worth is estimated at approximately $5 million, a remarkable achievement for a 19-year-old in just his second Formula 1 season.
This wealth accumulation reflects not only his Mercedes salary but also sponsorship deals, performance bonuses, and the rapid financial trajectory available to successful F1 drivers.
His net worth has grown exponentially since joining Mercedes’ junior program, with projections suggesting potential for $20+ million by age 25 if his career trajectory continues upward.
For context, Kimi’s current net worth exceeds what many established professionals earn in entire careers, demonstrating the lucrative nature of Formula 1 for top-tier talent. His financial position provides security that allows pure focus on racing performance without distraction, a luxury that enhances competitive performance.
Mercedes F1 Contract and Salary
2025 Rookie Contract: Kimi’s debut season with Mercedes reportedly paid a base salary of $2 million, considered generous for a rookie but reflecting Mercedes’ investment in his long-term potential. This base salary positioned him among the higher-paid first-year drivers in recent F1 history.
2026 Contract Extension: Following his impressive rookie season, Mercedes extended Kimi’s contract through 2028 with a significantly improved deal.
His 2026 annual salary increased to approximately $4 million base, representing 100% salary growth and recognition of his developing value to the team.
Performance Bonuses: Beyond base salary, Kimi’s contract includes substantial performance incentives including:
- Per-point bonuses (estimated $50,000 per championship point)
- Podium bonuses (estimated $100,000-300,000 depending on position)
- Race win bonuses (estimated $500,000 per victory)
- Championship position bonuses (escalating payments for top-5 finishes)
His total 2025 earnings including bonuses reportedly reached $12.5 million, far exceeding his base salary and demonstrating how performance-based compensation dominates F1 driver income.
Additional Income Sources
Personal Sponsorships: Kimi’s rising profile has attracted personal sponsors including watch brands, sporting goods companies, and lifestyle brands seeking association with young, successful athletes. These deals typically include:
- Social media promotion requirements
- Personal appearance obligations
- Product endorsement rights
- Potential equity arrangements
Merchandising: Official Kimi Antonelli merchandise through Mercedes and independent retailers generates royalty income, with items ranging from team wear to collectible models and accessories.
Social Media Value: With 3.9 million Instagram followers, Kimi possesses significant influencer value. While F1 contracts typically restrict certain commercial activities, strategic sponsored content can generate substantial additional income within permissible boundaries.
Appearance Fees: Personal appearances at corporate events, sponsor activations, and fan experiences command premium rates for F1 drivers, particularly rising stars like Kimi.
Investment Income: Smart financial management likely includes investment portfolios managed by professional wealth advisors, generating passive income through diversified holdings.
Comparison with Other Young F1 Drivers
Compared to other young F1 talents:
- Oscar Piastri (age 23): ~$5 million salary
- Lando Norris (age 26): ~$20 million salary
- Charles Leclerc (age 28): ~$30 million salary
- Max Verstappen (age 28): ~$55 million salary
Kimi’s current compensation aligns well with his experience level, with clear trajectory toward eight-figure annual earnings if he achieves race wins and championship contention in coming seasons.
Future Earning Potential
If Kimi develops into a championship contender, his earning potential could reach $30-50 million annually by his mid-20s.
Successful F1 drivers combine team salaries, personal sponsors, and business ventures to build nine-figure career earnings.
Lewis Hamilton’s estimated $500+ million career earnings provide a potential roadmap for Kimi’s financial future if his talent translates into sustained success.
Racing Career Journey

Karting Beginnings (2014-2021)
Kimi Antonelli began competitive karting at age 7 in 2014, remarkably young even by motorsport standards where early starts are common.
His father Marco’s expertise provided immediate competitive advantages through optimal equipment selection, chassis setup knowledge, and psychological coaching that helped young Kimi handle competitive pressure.
- Early Success (2014-2018): Kimi’s initial karting years featured steady progression through regional and national Italian championships. He developed fundamental skills including racecraft, overtaking techniques, and wet-weather driving that would later prove crucial in formula racing.
- National Recognition (2019-2020): By his early teenage years, Kimi dominated Italian karting championships, winning the prestigious WSK Champions Cup and Andrea Margutti Trophy. These victories attracted attention from major racing teams and established him as Italy’s most promising young talent.
- International Domination (2021): At age 14, Kimi conquered the FIA Karting World Championship, defeating drivers from over 30 nations and confirming his readiness for formula racing. This world championship victory represented the culmination of seven years’ karting development and opened doors to Mercedes’ junior program.
Formula 4 Breakthrough (2022)
Kimi’s transition to single-seater racing came in 2022 at age 15, competing simultaneously in Italian F4 and ADAC German F4 championships—an aggressive schedule that demonstrated his confidence and work capacity.
- Italian F4 Championship: Kimi dominated with 13 wins from 21 races, securing the championship with rounds to spare. His winning percentage of 62% represented one of the most dominant F4 seasons in recent history.
- ADAC German F4: Competing against different competitors on different circuits, Kimi again proved superior with 9 wins from 24 races, claiming this championship as well.
His dual-championship success in debut formula season marked him as generational talent, drawing comparisons to Max Verstappen’s junior career and triggering intense interest from Formula 1 teams.
Formula Regional Dominance (2023)
Rather than immediately jumping to Formula 3, Mercedes strategically placed Kimi in Formula Regional European Championship (FREC) for 2023, allowing additional development before F3’s higher competition level.
- Championship Victory: Kimi won 12 of 24 races, claimed 18 podiums, and secured the championship convincingly. His racecraft matured significantly, with improved wheel-to-wheel combat skills, strategic thinking, and consistency.
- Technical Development: FREC’s more sophisticated cars (compared to F4) taught Kimi about tire management, fuel conservation, and setup optimization—skills essential for F1.
- Mental Growth: Handling championship pressure while surrounded by older, more experienced drivers accelerated Kimi’s psychological development and prepared him for F1’s intense scrutiny.
Formula 2 Success (2024)
Skipping Formula 3 entirely, Kimi jumped directly to Formula 2 for 2024 with Prema Racing, the most successful F2 team. This aggressive progression reflected Mercedes’ belief in his readiness for F1-level competition.
- Learning Curve: Early-season struggles taught valuable lessons about F2’s harder tires, longer races, and more experienced competition. Kimi’s humility in accepting coaching and analyzing mistakes impressed Mercedes leadership.
- Mid-Season Breakthrough: From the Spanish round onward, Kimi found his rhythm, scoring 5 feature race wins in the season’s second half and demonstrating the learning capacity essential for F1 success.
- Championship Result: While not claiming the F2 title (finishing 3rd), Kimi showed enough promise for Mercedes to confirm his 2025 F1 promotion, replacing the departing Lewis Hamilton.
Mercedes F1 Debut (2025)
- Australian Grand Prix 2025: Kimi’s F1 debut at Melbourne’s Albert Park Circuit captured global attention. Despite qualifying 14th due to rookie nerves, he drove a composed race to finish 10th, scoring his first championship point on debut—a significant achievement given the race’s high attrition rate.
- Early Season Challenges: The opening races proved difficult as Kimi adapted to F1’s complexity, dealing with car weight, tire management over longer stints, and racing wheel-to-wheel with world champions. Several incidents and qualifying struggles tested his resolve.
- Mid-Season Improvement: From the British Grand Prix onward, Kimi showed marked improvement, consistently qualifying in the top 10 and bringing home points. His first podium at Spa-Francorchamps (3rd place) in wet conditions showcased his exceptional car control and racecraft.
- Season Results: Kimi finished his rookie season in 12th position with 62 championship points, exceeding Mercedes’ expectations and securing his contract extension through 2028.
2026 Season and Current Form
Entering his second F1 season with enhanced confidence and experience, Kimi begins 2026 as a legitimate contender for race wins and potential championship top-5 finish.
Pre-season testing showed impressive pace, with Kimi regularly matching teammate George Russell’s lap times—a strong indicator of competitive readiness.
Mercedes’ 2026 car development focused partly on Kimi’s feedback, integrating his preferences into the design philosophy and demonstrating the team’s long-term commitment to building around their young star.
Girlfriend and Relationship Status 2026
Eliska Babickova: Racing Power Couple
Kimi Antonelli is in a committed relationship with Eliska Babickova, a 20-year-old Czech racing driver who made history as the first female Italian Karting OK Champion in 2023.
Their relationship represents one of motorsport’s most compelling young couples, with both partners understanding the unique pressures and lifestyle demands of professional racing.
- How They Met: Kimi and Eliska’s paths crossed repeatedly throughout their karting careers, competing at the same European championships and sharing paddock spaces. Their friendship gradually developed into romance through shared passion for racing, mutual understanding of competitive pressure, and time spent at circuits worldwide.
- Relationship Timeline: The couple officially began dating in October 2023, going public with their relationship through subtle social media posts that delighted fans. They celebrated their first anniversary on October 14, 2024, with heartfelt Instagram posts showcasing their journey together.
Eliska Babickova: More Than Just “The Girlfriend”
Eliska deserves recognition beyond her relationship with Kimi, having achieved remarkable success in her own racing career:
Racing Achievements:
- 2023 Italian Karting OK Champion (first female winner)
- Multiple podium finishes in European karting championships
- Breaking gender barriers in traditionally male-dominated motorsport
- Currently competing in junior formula categories with ambitions for higher levels
Social Media Influence: Eliska has cultivated her own significant following with over 130,000 Instagram followers (@babickovaeli), where she shares racing content, lifestyle posts, and glimpses into her relationship with Kimi.
Personal Background: Born September 10, 2005, in the Czech Republic, Eliska grew up in a racing family similar to Kimi’s background. Her parents supported her karting dreams from young age, enabling her to compete internationally despite the significant financial requirements.
Public Relationship Dynamics
Unlike some celebrity couples who maintain strict privacy, Kimi and Eliska balance openness with boundaries:
Social Media Presence: They regularly feature in each other’s Instagram stories and posts, sharing sweet moments from travels, race weekends, and everyday life. These posts humanize Kimi beyond his racing persona and provide fans with relatable relationship content.
Grand Prix Appearances: Eliska frequently attends Kimi’s Formula 1 races when her own racing schedule permits, appearing in Mercedes hospitality areas and providing emotional support. Memorable appearances include:
- Saudi Arabian Grand Prix (early 2025)
- Belgian Grand Prix at Spa where Kimi scored his first podium
- ATP Finals in Turin where they enjoyed rare downtime together
Mutual Support: Both actively support each other’s careers, with Kimi attending Eliska’s races when possible and both promoting each other’s achievements on social media. This mutual respect and understanding strengthens their bond amid demanding careers.
Privacy Boundaries: Despite public visibility, they maintain privacy around intimate relationship details, avoiding oversharing that could invite unwanted scrutiny or pressure. This maturity in handling public relationships impresses observers.
Relationship Challenges and Strengths
Distance and Schedules: The biggest challenge facing Kimi and Eliska involves managing separate racing calendars that often place them on different continents simultaneously. F1’s 24-race global schedule combined with Eliska’s own commitments means extended periods apart requiring strong communication and trust.
Public Pressure: Being in the spotlight brings challenges including:
- Social media scrutiny of every interaction
- Speculation about relationship status
- Comparisons to other racing couples
- Unwanted attention from tabloid media
Shared Understanding: Their greatest relationship strength lies in mutual understanding of racing lifestyle demands. Both comprehend the singular focus required for competition, the disappointment following poor results, and the euphoria after victories—experiences that create deep connection beyond typical relationships.
Future Prospects
As both continue developing their racing careers, questions arise about long-term compatibility given the demanding nature of professional motorsport.
However, their genuine connection, shared values, and mutual respect suggest strong foundation for lasting relationship if both choose to prioritize it alongside their careers.
Awards, Recognition, and Career Highlights
Major Championships and Titles
Karting Championships:
- FIA Karting World Championship (2021)
- WSK Champions Cup Winner (2020)
- Andrea Margutti Trophy Champion (2020)
- Multiple regional and national titles (2018-2021)
Formula 4 Titles:
- Italian F4 Champion (2022)
- ADAC German F4 Champion (2022)
- Most dominant F4 season in modern history
Formula Regional:
- Formula Regional European Champion (2023)
- 12 race victories
- 18 podium finishes from 24 races
Formula 2 Achievements:
- 3rd place championship finish (2024)
- 5 feature race wins
- Multiple fastest laps
- Prema Racing’s most successful rookie
Formula 1 Milestones
2025 Rookie Season:
- First championship point on debut (Australian GP)
- First podium finish (Belgian GP, 3rd place)
- Youngest Mercedes F1 driver in history
- 62 championship points (12th in standings)
- Outqualified teammate George Russell on 4 occasions
Industry Recognition:
- Mercedes’ youngest ever F1 driver
- Third-youngest F1 driver in history
- Featured in Netflix’s F1 documentary series “The Seat”
- FIA Super License holder since age 17
- Multiple “Rookie of the Weekend” awards
Media and Cultural Impact
Kimi’s arrival in F1 generated significant media attention, with coverage extending beyond traditional motorsport publications into mainstream outlets.
His youth, talent, and photogenic partnership with Eliska created compelling narrative that attracted new audiences to Formula 1.
- Documentary Features: His promotion to Mercedes F1 was documented extensively in behind-the-scenes content, providing unprecedented access to the pressure and process of teenage F1 entry.
- Social Media Influence: His 3.9 million Instagram followers place him among F1’s most-followed younger drivers, creating valuable marketing potential for sponsors and Mercedes.
- Youth Appeal: Kimi’s success attracts younger audiences to F1, with teenagers seeing realistic possibility of achieving F1 dreams—crucial for the sport’s long-term growth and relevance.
Interesting Facts About Kimi Antonelli
1. Youngest Mercedes F1 Driver Ever
At 18 years and 7 months when making his F1 debut in March 2025, Kimi became the youngest driver ever to race for Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team, breaking records and demonstrating the team’s faith in youth development over experience.
2. Named After F1 Legend
Kimi’s first name honors Kimi Räikkönen, the 2007 F1 World Champion known for his ice-cool demeanor and exceptional racecraft. His father Marco admired Räikkönen’s no-nonsense approach to racing, hoping his son would embody similar qualities.
3. Multilingual Communication
Kimi speaks fluent Italian (native language), English (required for F1), and conversational German (learned during ADAC F4 campaign). This linguistic versatility helps with team communication and media obligations across F1’s global calendar.
4. Simulator Obsession
Beyond required team simulator work, Kimi regularly practices on consumer racing simulators, often competing in online championships against amateur drivers who don’t realize they’re racing against actual F1 driver. He uses these sessions for both enjoyment and maintaining racecraft during off-weeks.
5. Lewis Hamilton’s Blessing
Lewis Hamilton personally recommended Kimi as his replacement, telling Mercedes leadership that Kimi possessed the raw talent and temperament necessary for F1 success. This endorsement from seven-time champion carried enormous weight in Mercedes’ decision-making.
6. Academic Intelligence
Despite prioritizing racing, Kimi maintained strong academic performance throughout school, particularly excelling in mathematics and physics—subjects that translate directly into understanding vehicle dynamics and racing strategy.
7. Fitness Fanaticism
Kimi’s dedication to physical training borders on obsessive, with daily workouts even during race weekends when most drivers minimize physical activity. His trainer describes him as “the most disciplined teenage athlete I’ve ever worked with.”
8. Charitable Involvement
Despite his young age, Kimi supports several charitable causes including youth motorsport access programs that provide karting opportunities for underprivileged children who couldn’t otherwise afford racing participation.
9. Fashion Interest
Outside racing, Kimi has developed interest in fashion, frequently appearing in stylish outfits at F1 events and showing potential for future brand collaborations in fashion and lifestyle sectors beyond motorsport.
10. Perfectionist Mentality
Team members describe Kimi as relentlessly self-critical, spending hours reviewing telemetry data and onboard footage seeking microscopic improvements. This perfectionism drives continuous development but occasionally requires management to prevent excessive self-pressure.
What is Kimi Antonelli Doing Now in 2026?
Current F1 Campaign
Kimi’s 2026 season represents his sophomore year in Formula 1, competing in Mercedes’ latest challenger alongside experienced teammate George Russell.
The season began promisingly with strong pre-season testing results suggesting genuine race-winning potential if Mercedes’ car development has produced competitive machinery.
Early-season races (Australia, Saudi Arabia, Japan) showed improved pace and confidence, with Kimi consistently qualifying in the top 8 and bringing home strong points finishes.
His racecraft has matured significantly from his rookie season, demonstrating improved tire management, overtaking decisiveness, and strategic thinking.
Training and Development
Between races, Kimi maintains intense training regimen including:
- Daily physical training (strength, cardio, reaction drills)
- Simulator sessions at Mercedes’ Brackley factory
- Engineering debriefs analyzing previous race data
- Media obligations and sponsor appearances
- Mental performance coaching
- Strategy sessions preparing for upcoming circuits
Off-Track Life
Living Situation: Kimi now lives in Monaco, following common F1 driver practice of residing in the tax-favorable principality. He shares an apartment in Fontvieille, living independently for first time while Eliska visits regularly when schedules permit.
Social Life: Despite fame, Kimi maintains relatively normal social life, regularly meeting with other young F1 drivers including Oscar Piastri and Franco Colapinto for dinners, gym sessions, and paddle tennis matches that provide rare normalcy.
Hobbies: Beyond racing, Kimi enjoys:
- Gaming (particularly racing simulators and FIFA)
- Paddle tennis
- Mountain biking in Monaco’s surrounding hills
- Italian cuisine and cooking when time permits
- Fashion and sneaker collecting
Future Goals and Ambitions
Short-term (2026-2027):
- First F1 race victory
- Consistent podium finishes
- Championship top-5 finish
- Outperform teammate George Russell
Medium-term (2028-2030):
- World Championship contention
- Multiple race wins per season
- Establish himself among F1’s elite drivers
- Potential Mercedes team leadership role
Long-term Career Vision:
- Multiple World Championships
- Legacy as one of greatest Italian F1 drivers
- Potential team ownership or management post-retirement
- Inspiring next generation of young drivers
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How old is Kimi Antonelli in 2026?
Kimi Antonelli is 19 years old as of 2026, having been born on August 25, 2006. He turns 20 in August 2026, during the summer break between the Hungarian and Belgian Grands Prix, making him one of Formula 1’s youngest active competitors.
What is Kimi Antonelli’s net worth?
Kimi Antonelli’s estimated net worth is approximately $5 million as of 2026. His wealth comes from his Mercedes F1 contract (base salary of $4 million for 2026), performance bonuses from race results, personal sponsorships, merchandise royalties, and smart financial investments managed through professional wealth advisors.
Who is Kimi Antonelli’s girlfriend?
Kimi Antonelli is dating Eliska Babickova, a 20-year-old Czech racing driver who made history as the first female Italian Karting OK Champion in 2023. They’ve been together since October 2023, sharing a relationship built on mutual understanding of racing’s demands and genuine connection beyond their public profiles.
How tall is Kimi Antonelli?
Kimi Antonelli stands at 5 feet 8 inches (172 centimeters) tall and weighs approximately 64 kilograms (141 pounds). These measurements place him in the ideal physical range for Formula 1 drivers, where size impacts car design, weight distribution, and competitive performance.
What is Kimi Antonelli’s salary at Mercedes?
Kimi Antonelli’s 2026 base salary with Mercedes-AMG Petronas is approximately $4 million annually, doubled from his $2 million rookie contract in 2025. Including performance bonuses for points, podiums, and race wins, his total 2026 earnings could reach $15-20 million if he achieves competitive results.
When did Kimi Antonelli join Formula 1?
Kimi Antonelli made his Formula 1 debut at the 2025 Australian Grand Prix in March 2025, driving for Mercedes-AMG Petronas as Lewis Hamilton’s replacement. At 18 years and 7 months old, he became Mercedes’ youngest ever F1 driver and the third-youngest driver in F1 history.
What championships has Kimi Antonelli won?
Kimi Antonelli has won numerous championships including the FIA Karting World Championship (2021), Italian F4 Championship (2022), ADAC German F4 Championship (2022), and Formula Regional European Championship (2023). He finished 3rd in Formula 2 (2024) before his F1 promotion, showcasing consistent success across junior categories.
Is Kimi Antonelli related to any famous racers?
Kimi Antonelli is not directly related to famous racers, but his father Marco Antonelli was a competitive karting driver who now manages Kimi’s career. Kimi was named after F1 legend Kimi Räikkönen (no family relation), with his father admiring the Finnish driver’s racing style and personality.
Where does Kimi Antonelli live?
Kimi Antonelli currently lives in Monaco, specifically in the Fontvieille district of the principality. Like many Formula 1 drivers, he relocated to Monaco for its favorable tax environment, year-round pleasant weather, proximity to European race circuits, and community of fellow F1 drivers and motorsport professionals.
What are Kimi Antonelli’s career goals?
Kimi Antonelli’s stated career goals include winning his first F1 race in 2026, achieving consistent podium finishes, and ultimately competing for World Championships. Long-term, he aims to become one of Italy’s greatest F1 drivers, potentially matching or exceeding the achievements of Alberto Ascari, while winning multiple world titles with Mercedes.
Conclusion
Kimi Antonelli’s remarkable journey from 7-year-old karting beginner to 19-year-old Formula 1 driver with Mercedes represents one of motorsport’s most impressive success stories.
His age of just 19 years combined with $5 million net worth, factory Mercedes F1 seat, and relationship with fellow racer Eliska Babickova creates compelling narrative that extends beyond racing into broader cultural relevance.
At an age when most teenagers are finishing high school or starting university, Kimi competes against world champions while earning millions and influencing millions more through social media.
His rapid progression through karting, Formula 4, Formula Regional, and Formula 2—consistently winning championships and breaking records—demonstrated exceptional talent that justified Mercedes’ bold decision to promote him directly to F1 as Lewis Hamilton’s replacement.
His rookie season’s 62 championship points and first podium finish validated this faith while his 2026 contract extension through 2028 signals Mercedes’ long-term commitment to building around their young star.
Beyond statistics and achievements, Kimi’s maturity, work ethic, and balanced approach to fame distinguish him from typical teenage prodigies.
His relationship with Eliska provides grounding influence while his dedication to continuous improvement suggests sustained success rather than brief viral fame.
As he continues developing throughout his teenage years and early twenties, the potential for world championships and legendary career status remains very real.
Whether you’re a longtime Formula 1 fan or new to motorsport, Kimi Antonelli represents the exciting future of racing—young, talented, relatable, and hungry for success.
His journey has only just begun, and the coming years promise thrilling racing, continued growth, and potentially multiple world championships that could cement his place among the all-time greats. Follow his progress across social media and through Mercedes’ official channels to witness history in the making.
