Kimi Antonelli’s Formula 1 world championship sparked celebrations across Italy, from his hometown of Casalecchio to Mexico City. Friends and sporting figures followed the decisive race on television and sent messages to congratulate the new champion.
Valentino Rossi said Antonelli reminded him of himself at the age of 20. Speaking to Sky, the motorcycle racing legend praised the Mercedes driver’s performance in his second season, highlighting the gap he created over his teammate and his aggressive approach on the track.
Rossi also described Antonelli as mature, professional and simple away from racing. He said the Italian’s title was particularly significant after a long wait for a new Italian Formula 1 champion, adding that Antonelli could become a national hero and an international superstar.
MotoGP rider Marco Bezzecchi, who celebrated his birthday with Antonelli in August, watched the race after getting up early. He said he would give his friend a present when they next met and praised the pressure Antonelli handled at Monza and throughout the title-winning campaign.
Tennis player Jannik Sinner also sent Antonelli a video message. He congratulated him on his first world title and said that, after a difficult first season, the driver had managed to change everything and achieve the triumph. Sinner added that Italy was proud of him.
Singer Vasco Rossi sent another message through Sky, thanking Antonelli for the excitement he had provided and congratulating him on the victory.
Sebastian Vettel, who previously held the record for the youngest driver to win the title, also congratulated Antonelli. Vettel praised his curiosity, rapid learning, fearlessness and controlled driving, and encouraged him to enjoy the achievement while remembering that the entire journey, not only crossing the finish line, mattered.
Sources: La Repubblica.