Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team driver Kimi Antonelli received the 33rd Trofeo Bandini in Brisighella, Italy, on Saturday (May 30th), earning recognition for his outstanding start to the 2026 Formula 1 season.
The Trofeo Bandini was established in 1992 in memory of Italian racing driver Lorenzo Bandini, who tragically lost his life at the 1967 Monaco Grand Prix. The trophy presentation takes place annually in Brisighella, Italy, the hometown of Bandini, and features day-long celebrations across the Emilia-Romagna region.
With this recognition, Antonelli becomes the fifth Mercedes driver to receive the trophy, following teammate George Russell in 2024, as well as former Mercedes drivers Lewis Hamilton, Valtteri Bottas, and Nico Rosberg. Notably, the Mercedes F1 Team also received the honors as a constructor in 2015, becoming the only F1 team to have received the Trofeo Bandini as an entire team.
“A true honour”: Antonelli on receiving the 2026 Trofeo Bandini
After a difficult but promising rookie F1 season, Antonelli came into the 2026 season ready to impress. The young Italian claimed an emotional maiden win at the Shanghai GP before going on to dominate the following race in Suzuka. There, he claimed victory by 13.722s to become the youngest championship leader in F1 history. Antonelli secured his third consecutive pole position and win in Miami and went on to claim his fourth 2026 win at the Canadian GP.
Receiving the 33rd Trofeo Bandini in Brisighella’s Piazza Marconi following his recent strong 2026 F1 performances, Antonelli shared:
“It is a true honour to be part of this event and to receive such a special award. Being here today, surrounded by so much support and positivity, makes this moment even more meaningful. This is an experience I will never forget, and I feel incredibly grateful to share it with all of you.”
“I would like to dedicate this trophy to my family, my amazing team, and everyone here today who has supported me throughout this journey. Your encouragement and belief in me have made all the difference, and I am deeply thankful for each and every one of you,” he concluded.
