Kimi Antonelli, the young F1 prodigy, was recently chosen by Mercedes to fill the shoes of the legendary Lewis Hamilton. Despite being just 18, he’s scored points in all three races of the season — a remarkable feat for a rookie. But what’s grabbing headlines even more than his on-track performance is what’s happening off the track. 🛑
Mercedes recently gifted Antonelli a stunning AMG GT 63 S Coupe to celebrate his achievements, but he won’t be able to drive it legally on public roads for the next three years!
Why He’s Banned From Driving His Own Car
Italian law is at the center of this bizarre situation. As of December 14, 2024, a new regulation prevents fresh drivers from operating vehicles that exceed 100 horsepower per ton.
Antonelli passed his driving test in January 2025, which means he falls directly under this rule. His new AMG GT 63 S? It boasts a wild 577 hp per ton — way over the legal limit. 🚫
So even though he's racing cars at 300+ km/h every weekend, he's not allowed to drive his own gift legally in Italy until 2028.
Rookie Impresses on Track
While other rookies have struggled (like Red Bull’s Liam Lawson, who was dropped after just two races), Antonelli has been exceptional:
-
Scored points in every Grand Prix so far
-
Became the youngest driver to ever lead a race
-
Currently sits 5th in the Driver’s Championship — just behind teammate George Russell 👏
Mercedes’ trust in the young Italian is clearly paying off.
A Gift He Has to Wait For
The AMG GT 63 S was handed to him just before the Japanese GP at Suzuka — a classy move by Mercedes. But it’s more of a garage queen for now. He might actually become World Champion before he’s allowed to legally drive his street-legal Mercedes. 😅
“Dura lex, sed lex” – The law is hard, but it is the law.
Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S Coupe – Known Specifications
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Isn’t It Strange?
Imagine being skilled enough to race at the world’s most elite level but banned from driving a regular road car that has over 100 hp. The irony is hard to miss.
Till then, Antonelli will continue to thrill fans worldwide — just not from behind the wheel of his own gift.