Kimi Antonelli celebrates first Formula 1 world title in Mexico
Kimi Antonelli secured his first Formula 1 world championship at the Mexican Grand Prix after crossing the finish line in third place. The 20-year-old Italian celebrated the milestone on the podium, where Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton lifted him onto their shoulders in a gesture of recognition.
Antonelli described the moment as “surreal” on the Mercedes Silver Arrows podcast, expressing deep gratitude for the support shown by two drivers who have shaped the history of the sport. “To see so much respect and appreciation from two drivers who have made history, and are still doing so, is a memory that will stay with me forever,” Antonelli said.
Podium reception from Verstappen and Hamilton
The celebration on the podium was unexpected for the newly crowned champion. Antonelli noted that he felt incredibly happy and emotional when the two veterans lifted him up. He plans to frame the photograph of the moment to hang on his wall, calling it a “very special moment.”
Max Verstappen, who secured his third victory of the season at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, offered a lighthearted take on his younger peer. When asked by Motorsport.com what distinguishes the 20-year-old from other drivers his age, Verstappen joked, “He speaks Italian!”
Verstappen further noted that he appreciates Antonelli’s grounded personality. “He is just a normal guy. He doesn’t pretend to be a rock star or superstar. He is just very sincere, has a good heart, and I really appreciate that,” Verstappen told Motorsport.com.
Record-breaking path to the championship
The Italian driver achieved the world championship in just two seasons, a feat contrasted with the career trajectory of his teammate, George Russell. While Russell had been viewed as a primary contender to lead Mercedes back to a world title, he has struggled to secure the same results in the current car. Antonelli now holds the record for the youngest world champion in Formula 1 history, surpassing the previous record held by Sebastian Vettel.
Frequently asked questions about the championship
How old is Kimi Antonelli?
Kimi Antonelli is 20 years and 68 days old, making him the youngest world champion in the history of Formula 1.
Who previously held the record for the youngest world champion?
Sebastian Vettel previously held the record for the youngest driver to win a Formula 1 world title.
What did Max Verstappen say about Antonelli’s talent?
When asked what set the young driver apart, Verstappen cited his talent and the quality of his professional guidance from a young age, noting that his father played a key role in his development.
More on Kimi Antonelli
🚨| Kimi Antonelli's Dream Photo with Hamilton and Verstappen: — Andrea Kimi Antonelli expressed his desire to capture a special moment with Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen after winning the F1 title. Speaking to media, Antonelli shared: “I will definitely frame the picture… pic.twitter.com/jnifrXcYJk”
👑Crowning of the new King👑 Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton pay fitting tribute to new world champion Kimi Antonelli#F1 #KimiAntonellihttps://t.co/IwYEqn7xOm
Three World Champions, Together 🏆❤️ Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton celebrate the newest member of the world champion's club, Kimi Antonelli!#MaxVerstappen #LewisHamilton #KimiAntonellihttps://t.co/TDyFX1iTPP @YouTubeより
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