Andrea Kimi Antonelli avoided injury in a solo road accident days before his scheduled appearance at Formula 1's Bahrain pre-season test. The 17-year-old Mercedes junior driver collided with a guardrail near Serravalle, Italy during preparations for this week's crucial testing session.

Italian traffic police confirmed the single-vehicle incident occurred without other cars involved. The crash marked an unexpected setback for Antonelli, who's preparing for his first F1 test drive with Mercedes amid speculation about a future race seat.

Despite the scare, team officials confirmed Antonelli will participate in Bahrain as planned. The incident raises questions about focus for the highly touted prospect, though Mercedes appears confident in his readiness. Last year's Formula Regional European champion remains on track for his pivotal F1 debut this week.