Exciting news for Formula One fans! Andrea Kimi Antonelli, the 18-year-old racing prodigy, has officially passed his driving test just six weeks before his highly anticipated debut with Mercedes at the Australian Grand Prix.

Antonelli, who’s stepping into the shoes of Lewis Hamilton after the seven-time champion’s move to Ferrari, shared the milestone on social media. A post from Mercedes showed him in a driving school car, giving a thumbs-up with the caption: “Mission completed.”

This achievement comes as a key step for the young driver, especially after recent changes to F1’s licensing rules. Previously, drivers needed a valid driver’s license and had to be at least 18 years old to qualify for a Super License, which allows them to compete in F1. However, the rules were tweaked last year to allow exceptional talents like Antonelli to participate in practice sessions before turning 18.

The changes were driven by efforts from Mercedes, ensuring that drivers with outstanding skill and maturity could join the grid regardless of age. As the team’s CEO, Toto Wolff, put it, “The change of regulations isn’t about Antonelli—it’s about making sure drivers with the right pedigree and success can race in F1.”

Antonelli has already shown his potential, making his free practice debut at the Italian Grand Prix earlier this year. Despite a high-speed crash during the session, he walked away unharmed, proving his resilience on the track.

As the preseason testing in Bahrain approaches on February 26, all eyes will be on Antonelli and his teammate George Russell. Mercedes is hoping the duo will help the team bounce back from last season’s disappointing fourth-place finish in the Constructors’ Championship.

And while the rookie’s performance remains to be seen, one thing’s for sure: at least he’ll be able to drive himself home from the airport!