Kimi Antonelli secured the Formula 1 World Championship title with four races remaining in the season after finishing third at the sold-out Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico. The victory makes him the youngest world champion in the history of the sport at just 20 years and 68 days old, surpassing the previous record held by Sebastian Vettel. Antonelli, driving for Mercedes, achieved this milestone in his second year competing in Formula 1.
Overwhelmed by the achievement, Antonelli initially struggled to speak after the race. His race engineer Peter Bonnington radioed him to confirm he was the world champion, followed by congratulations from team principal Toto Wolff. Eventually climbing onto his Mercedes car to celebrate, Antonelli expressed deep gratitude and disbelief at the moment, stating that he is trying to comprehend what has just happened.
The victory holds significant historical weight as Antonelli is the first Italian driver to win the Formula 1 title since Alberto Ascari successfully defended his championship in 1953. The Italian press has reacted with immense enthusiasm, hailing him as a legend and a revolutionary figure. Corriere dello Sport described it as a historic day where all of Italy celebrates, while La Repubblica noted that the Italian flag has not flown in this "crazy circus of motors" since Ascari. Gazzetta dello Sport praised his unique talent and calm ascent to the top, and both Corriere della Sera and Tuttosport highlighted his status as the youngest champion ever and a new chapter in Italian history.
Sebastian Vettel, who previously held the record as the youngest champion at 23 years and 134 days old during his first title win in 2010, posted a video message on Sunday evening to congratulate Antonelli. Vettel praised the young driver's curiosity, fearlessness, and clean yet controlled driving style that pushes limits when necessary. He noted that Antonelli understands the importance of controlling only what is controllable.
In his closing remarks, Vettel offered advice to the new champion, suggesting that while great success may change how people see him, he should not change how he sees others. He concluded his message with a warm embrace and an encouragement to enjoy the moment.
Sources: Der Spiegel.