Mar 19 • 10:24 UTC 🇮🇹 Italy La Repubblica

When Kimi Antonelli took the driving test: "He had practiced with a manual gearbox and didn't signal"

Formula 1 champion Kimi Antonelli's driving test revealed his lack of signaling etiquette, as recounted by engineer Sara Giusti from the San Marino Motorization authority.

Kimi Antonelli, the notable Formula 1 racer, recently took his driving test, and engineer Sara Giusti from the Motorization authority of San Marino shared her experiences during the examination. Conducted on January 27, 2025, the test highlighted Antonelli's preparation, which included practicing with his father's van and his aunt's car. Despite his racing prowess, he displayed a lack of familiarity with regular road rules, particularly regarding signaling, which is crucial for safe driving on public roads.

Giusti emphasized an important teaching moment during the test when Antonelli was overtaking another vehicle. She reminded him that the rules of the road differ significantly from those on the racetrack, where signaling is mandatory to communicate intentions to other drivers. This anecdote not only underlines the importance of recognizing and adhering to various driving regulations but also illustrates the challenges faced by professional racers when transitioning to standard driving situations.

The story serves as a reminder of the gaps that can exist between professional competition and everyday driving. As talented as Antonelli is on the track, the need for clear communication through signaling is paramount on public roads, reinforcing the notion that all drivers, regardless of their racing capabilities, must prioritize safety and compliance with traffic laws.

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