Anna Danesi appeals to Kimi Antonelli: “Let me drive”

Sportal.it had the pleasure of meeting Anna Danesi, captain of the Italian women’s national volleyball team and KGM ambassador, in Milan. From her relationship with cars to her passion for driving, and her fascination with the world of racing—and Formula 1 in particular—the Olympic champion opened up to our microphones, also sending a message to the young talent Kimi Antonelli.

What’s your relationship with cars like?
“My dad used to be a driver—he’s retired now—so I’ve traveled a lot since I was little. I still remember our first car, a Multipla. There are four of us in the family, and we’re all very tall, so we’ve always needed spacious cars. I really enjoy driving and have no problem covering long distances. There’s one thing, though: when I’m behind the wheel, I never listen to music. I prefer silence, almost as if to enjoy the sound of the car itself. I drive practically every day and have a great relationship with driving, even in spite of certain stereotypes about women behind the wheel.”

You play in Monza, just a short walk from the racetrack. Have you ever attended a Formula 1 Grand Prix?
“Yes, I managed to go in 2024 for the Grand Prix, and it was a wonderful experience. I’d also love to experience the thrill of taking a lap around the track in a very fast car. We’ll see if I get the chance sooner or later. Just watching the race, though, was something special. The atmosphere—everything surrounding the drivers—is truly fascinating. We volleyball players are used to playing in arenas, in indoor settings we know well. Discovering such a different world of sports is exciting, and doing it right here in Monza made it all even more wonderful.”

Speaking of Formula 1, would you like to meet Kimi Antonelli and maybe take a lap around the track with him?
“Absolutely. I’ve seen that he could become world champion, and of course I wish him all the best. It would be wonderful to meet him, but even just to exchange a few tips and learn how he trains. I sometimes watch videos of drivers racing at incredible speeds, and I’m very curious about how they prepare. I believe that every athlete capable of excelling in their discipline has something to teach even those who practice other sports. I’d love to hear his perspective, understand how he handles the decisive moments of a race, and what goes through his mind when he’s under pressure. It would be a really interesting exchange for us volleyball players, too.”