After delivering one of the most thrilling moments of his budding Formula 1 career, young driver Kimi Antonelli faced a different kind of challenge off the track. Just days after standing on the podium for the first time in the premier motorsport category, the Italian showed up in Bologna to take the rigorous Italian Maturità, the national high school final exam that grants access to university.

Between Racing, Studying, and Celebrations at Home

At just 18 years old, Antonelli is experiencing a whirlwind of emotions. Last Sunday, the Mercedes driver secured an impressive third-place finish at the Canadian Grand Prix, sharing the podium with reigning world champion Max Verstappen (Red Bull) and teammate George Russell. It was a remarkable achievement in his rookie season, marking him as one of the sport’s most promising talents.

But there were no wild celebrations after his milestone moment. Fully aware of the importance of his academic appointment, he joked: “I can't show up hungover. I can't afford to party—my mom would get mad if I don’t show up well-rested for the exam.” And he meant it. On Wednesday, dressed simply and surrounded by fellow students, he sat for the first written test of the Maturità, Italy’s equivalent to Spain’s “Selectividad” or other college entrance exams.

Speaking to Italian media after the exam, Antonelli said: “I did the best I could. Now I just have to wait for the results. I was pretty nervous because I didn’t have much time to prepare.” He admitted that the day before, he reviewed at home with friends—though they did take time to celebrate Virtus Bologna’s recent basketball championship victory.

A Dream Year for Bologna… and for Antonelli

Success hasn’t just been personal for the young driver. The city of Bologna is enjoying a golden year in sports: alongside Virtus Bologna's basketball title, Bologna FC qualified for the Europa League and won the Coppa Italia, ending a 51-year drought. “We studied a bit, hung out, and celebrated Virtus’ championship. Hopefully I’ll have a strong weekend at the Austrian GP, and then we can celebrate Canada, Austria, and the Maturità,” said Antonelli.

With his school days nearly behind him, the teenager is looking ahead: “This marks the end of my school chapter, and now I can focus entirely on racing.” The future of Italian motorsport is shifting into high gear—and Kimi Antonelli is already on pole position.