Andrea Kimi Antonelli Documentary Set to Premiere
Date: May 5, 2023
Netflix is poised to release a 45-minute documentary titled The Seat, focusing on the ascent of young Italian driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who is preparing for his Formula 1 debut with Mercedes in 2025. The documentary will chronicle the past year of Antonelli’s life, capturing his transition from F2 rookie to future F1 star.
In August 2022, Mercedes announced Antonelli as the designated successor to Lewis Hamilton, emphasizing the significance of this selection. At just 18 years old, Antonelli is currently competing in his inaugural Formula 2 season, where he stands sixth in the championship after five races.
"It is a dream come true to be an F1 driver with the Mercedes F1 Team," Antonelli stated. His remarks highlight the collaborative efforts between himself and the Mercedes management, including team principal Toto Wolff. Antonelli expressed eagerness for viewers to experience the intricacies of his journey as shown in the documentary.
The trailer, released by Mercedes partner WhatsApp, offers behind-the-scenes glimpses into Antonelli’s development, internal selection process, and initial practice session at Monza. Wolff noted, "Selecting Kimi as our race driver for 2025 was a significant decision… WhatsApp facilitated smooth communication regarding Kimi’s development."
The documentary also captures Antonelli’s debut at the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne, which Netflix describes as “the biggest driver change in F1 history.” This narrative not only highlights Antonelli’s individual journey but also marks a pivotal moment for the Mercedes team as they transition to a new era.
For motorsport enthusiasts, The Seat promises an in-depth look at the mechanics behind talent recruitment at the highest levels of racing, making it essential viewing for fans and industry professionals alike.