Kimi Antonelli has made Formula 1 history by becoming the youngest world champion in the category. The Italian secured the title at the age of 20, during his second season on the grid, after finishing third at the Mexican Grand Prix on Sunday, November 1.
His impact has extended beyond his results. According to Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, Antonelli’s personality has earned him respect across the team and helped bring employees closer together.
Wolff said the young driver’s spontaneous behavior changed the atmosphere at Mercedes, whose British staff he described as more reserved. Speaking to Sky Sports, he explained that Antonelli began hugging people in the garage, and that members of the team eventually started doing the same.
The Mercedes chief also highlighted the contrast between Antonelli’s maturity behind the wheel and his relaxed life away from racing. Wolff recalled that the driver spent his birthday at a water park with friends, saying the moment reflected his age and personality.
Antonelli, born in Bologna on August 25, 2006, became the youngest Formula 1 champion at 20 years and 68 days. He surpassed the previous record held by Sebastian Vettel, who won his first title at 23 years and 134 days at the 2010 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
The achievement also ended a 73-year wait for an Italian drivers’ championship. Italy’s previous Formula 1 title had come in 1953, when Alberto Ascari won with Ferrari.
Antonelli joined Mercedes in 2025, taking Lewis Hamilton’s seat, and quickly established himself as one of the leading figures on the current grid.
Sources: CNN Brasil.