Kimi Antonelli targeting Nürburgring experience after impressive Formula 1 season start
Kimi Antonelli has made an outstanding start to the 2026 Formula 1 season. The young Italian driver has already secured three victories, extending his championship advantage over Mercedes teammate George Russell. While the season is still long, it is becoming increasingly clear that Mercedes currently possesses the most competitive car on the grid, and with the #12 driver performing at such a high level, the possibility of fighting for the world championship is now very realistic.
However, the Bologna-born talent is already looking beyond Formula 1 and dreaming about new motorsport challenges. Following the example set by Max Verstappen, Kimi Antonelli has now revealed his desire to race at the Nürburgring in the future.
At the moment, the Mercedes driver does not yet hold the licence required to compete at the legendary German circuit, but he hopes to obtain it before the end of the year.
Speaking with Jules Gounon, teammate of Max Verstappen in GT3 competition, Kimi Antonelli openly admitted his intention to begin the process soon.
“I will get that licence… I’ll try to do it before the end of the year,” Antonelli explained.
Jules Gounon reacted positively to the news and highlighted how deeply involved Max Verstappen has become with Nürburgring racing activities in recent years.
“Nice. Max is really involved. And I’m happy for you with the season you’re having,” Gounon replied.
The Nürburgring Nordschleife, often referred to as the “Green Hell,” remains one of the most iconic and demanding circuits in world motorsport. In recent seasons, Max Verstappen’s passion for GT racing and endurance competition has become increasingly visible, with the Dutch driver regularly spending time in simulator training and special racing programmes connected to the legendary track.
Now, Kimi Antonelli appears eager to follow a similar path alongside his Formula 1 commitments. For many fans, the idea of seeing one of Formula 1’s brightest young stars tackling the challenges of the Nürburgring would certainly add another exciting dimension to his rapidly growing career.
Considering the confidence and maturity Kimi Antonelli has already displayed during the opening phase of the 2026 Formula 1 season, it is perhaps no surprise that the Italian is already thinking about expanding his racing experience beyond the traditional Formula 1 environment.
Would you like to see Kimi Antonelli racing around the Green Hell in the future?
Leave a Reply