There's a guy from Bologna, born in 2006, who's writing one of the most beautiful pages in Italian motorsport. His name is Andrea Kimi Antonelli, drives a Mercedes and last night — Sunday 24 May 2026 — he won the Canadian Grand Prix, bringing the lead in the general classification to +43 points on the second. Fourth consecutive victory. At 19 years old.
A champion's race
In Montreal, Kimi started from second place, behind teammate George Russell. The first part of the race was a thrilling duel between the two silver Ferrari drivers—overtaking, counter-overtaking, and a few sparks. Then, on lap 30, the dramatic turn of events occurred: Russell's power unit failed, forcing the Briton to retire.
From that moment on, Kimi managed the race with impressive maturity. He held off an aggressive Verstappen, pitted at the right time, and managed the race until the checkered flag. Behind him, second Lewis Hamilton with Ferrari, and third Max Verstappen.
A dream season
The 2026 numbers are mind-blowing: 6 podiums, 2 pole positions, 5 fastest laps. Mercedes hadn't won the Constructors' World Championship since 2021 and, thanks largely to its young prodigy, is back in the running for the title.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli was born in Bologna on August 25, 2006. His father Marco was also a racing driver, and Kimi grew up on the track practically from the time he could walk. He won everything in karting and minor formulas before being promoted to F1 in 2025 by Toto Wolff's Mercedes. 30st May will receive the Bandini Trophy 2026, the award dedicated to the most promising young talent in F1 — the one of Schumacher, Alonso, Hamilton, Verstappen and Leclerc.
For Italian fans—in Italy and among the millions of Italian-descendants around the world—Kimi's story is more than a ranking. He's a boy from Bologna who brings the Italian flag to the pinnacle of one of the most followed sports on the planet. An Italian surname that the world, from now on, will have to learn to pronounce.
