Mercedes Blocks Antonelli from Racing at Nürburgring, Following in Verstappen's Footsteps

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Andrea Kimi Antonelli has a clear vision: growth in Formula 1, without limiting himself to a single world. This talented young Italian driver from Mercedes acknowledges that he dreams of racing in the prestigious 24 Hours of Nürburgring one day, following in Max Verstappen's footsteps who has always loved endurance racing and GT.

The 18-year-old driver from Bologna speaks openly about the legendary German race that takes place at the Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit, a long and feared public road course known worldwide as 'Inferno Verde'.

'I want to get the DMSB Nordschleife Permit (DPN) license for Nürburgring this year,' says Antonelli.

The door to this dream is closed by Bradley Lord, Mercedes' vice head coach. 'I think Kimi was just joking - and added - maybe he could try it after four world championships,' Lord said.

But for now, racing in the 24 Hours of Nürburgring is not on Antonelli's agenda.

The 24 Hours of Nürburgring is not an ordinary race. It is one of the most extreme and iconic events in the world of motorsport: over 20 kilometers of track, continuous changes in elevation, unpredictable weather conditions, and heavy traffic between cars from different categories.

This combination is what captivates Antonelli, who grew up not only watching Formula 1 but also the world of endurance racing.

'Inferno Verde is something extraordinary. It's a legendary track,' he says.

Words that demonstrate how this young Mercedes driver already has a mental approach similar to Verstappen's: racing as much as possible, exploring different disciplines, and enjoying the world of motorsports as a whole.

In recent years, Max Verstappen has become the symbol of a new generation of versatile drivers. In addition to his success in Formula 1, this Dutch driver is known for his great love of sim racing and GT racing, to the point of participating in the 24 Hours of Nürburgring, where he won narrowly, but was ultimately stripped of the victory due to technical issues while he was over half an hour ahead.

Antonelli doesn't hide the fact that he considers Verstappen his idol.

'I like the idea of racing in other categories too,' he says.

This approach reflects the personality of this young Italian driver, who is now considered one of the most promising talents in the world of motorsports.

Of course, his priorities remain on the journey in Formula 1 with Mercedes, which is accompanying Antonelli every step of the way towards his big leap. However, the allure of endurance racing and classic racing seems to be very strong.

And among Le Mans, GT, and endurance racing, Nürburgring holds a special place. Because the allure of 'Inferno Verde' continues to captivate generation after generation of drivers. Including those who, like Antonelli, have not yet fully begun their journey in Formula 1.