5 Minutes With Formula 1® Rising Star Andrea Kimi Antonelli

In the high-octane world of Formula 1®, where precision and speed reign supreme, IWC Schaffhausen has become a driving force. As the official engineering partner of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team since 2013, the Swiss luxury watchmaker has not only witnessed but contributed to the team's incredible success, including eight consecutive Constructors’ Championship wins between 2014 and 2021. This collaboration has inspired a series of unique timepieces, such as the lightweight titanium IWC Pilot's Watch Mark XX Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team, featuring the team's signature Petronas green accents.

IWC's commitment to Formula 1® now extends beyond the track and onto the silver screen. The watchmaker has teamed up with Apple Original Films for the upcoming F1® The Movie, directed by Joseph Kosinski of Top Gun: Maverick fame. Set for release in 2025, this highly anticipated film delivers an unprecedented look into the world of Formula 1®. The movie follows the fictional APXGP team, sponsored by IWC, with the brand's timepieces adorning the wrists of key characters, including the IWC Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 worn by Damson Idris (pictured below), who plays the film’s lead, and a bespoke green-dialled IWC Ingenieur SL donned by Brad Pitt.

As the excitement builds for both the film and the ongoing Formula 1® season, we sat down with one of the sport's rising stars, 18-year-old Andrea Kimi Antonelli. The promising Italian driver, who started the 2025 season as a rookie with the Mercedes team, has already made waves by placing fourth in his debut Formula 1® race at the Australian Grand Prix. In this exclusive interview, Antonelli shares fascinating insights into his life and career so far, and reveals what drives him, both on and off the track.

Best time behind the wheel?

Definitely my first time in a Formula 1® car. There are moments that will stay with me forever, and that’s one. 

Best F1® track?

My favourite track from the current calendar is Imola, which is also my home race. 

Best time of the day?

I love driving at night because the feeling of speed is doubled and it’s incredible with all the lights. That’s why I’m really looking forward to the Las Vegas race. 

Best way to stay calm?

A lot of it is experience but having the right people around you helps. 

Best decision you’ve made in the last year? 

Definitely signing with Mercedes. 

Best thing about your job?

All of it, really. Being able to perform at your best, work in such a professional environment, race at the highest level and drive one of the fastest cars in the world. 

Best thing about your IWC Pilot’s Watch Mark XX Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team? 

The design. I also love that it’s not heavy. With the titanium case you don’t really feel it when you’re wearing it. 

Best trip you’ve ever taken?

Last year I went on a road trip with my friends to the USA. We had a break from the season and it was great to disconnect a little bit and recharge the batteries. 

Best travel tip? 

If you can, prepare for jet lag. Sleep so you land fresh. Set yourself up to not suffer. 

Best way to spend a few hours in a new city? 

The first thing I did in Melbourne was head to St Kilda beach for a swim. It’s a great way to relax. 

Best meal you've ever had?

Oh, easy – pasta. I could eat it every day. I like ragú and the best is made by my nonna. 

Best racing movie?

There are a few great ones like Rush and Adrenalina Blu but my favourite has to be Cars.