Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli made history on Sunday by becoming the youngest driver to win the Formula 1 World Drivers’ Championship.
At just 20 years and 68 days old, the Italian driver shattered the long-standing record previously held by Sebastian Vettel, who was 23 when he claimed his maiden title.
The achievement also marks a monumental triumph for Italy, making Antonelli the nation’s first F1’s WDC since Alberto Ascari in 1953.
Antonelli entered the weekend with a commanding grip on the standings. He avoided unnecessary risks during a chaotic race featuring car interventions.
While Red Bull’s Max Verstappen powered ahead to claim the race victory under late pressure from Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton, Antonelli crossed the finish line safely in third to take an unassailable lead in the title race.
Title ‘truly special’ for Antonelli
“Yeah, I’m still trying to realize and understand at the moment what has just happened,” the young lad told the media, as quoted by Motorsport Week.
“Because, you know, when you work so hard, and since I was a kid, I’ve been dreaming of achieving this, and when you finally achieve it, it’s truly, truly special, and obviously all the emotions as well come out, and to be able as well to share this moment, to witness this moment with my whole family, with my team, and all of my friends as well is a moment that will be always remembered.”
“And I’m just super happy and grateful for what has just happened, and all the opportunities, all the support that I’ve got, not only this year but since I joined the team as well, so, yeah, just gonna try to enjoy it all the way,” he added.
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Fan reaction
Meanwhile, fans were divided over the news. While some are thrilled with Antonelli’s achievement, others feel it is a missed opportunity for teammate George Russell.
“BIG CONGRATS, KIMI!! Being the youngest F1 World Champion while Lewis and Max are still there fighting the same championship is just amazing to see and a great achievement. Generational Talent at its finest,” @fitra.eri commented on F1’s Instagram post announcing Antonelli as the world champion.
“THANK YOU FOR WORKING HARD, GEORGE. I’M SO PROUDDDDD OF YOUUUUU. See you next year!!,” @stringbuzz said in an edited TikTok video where Russell was seen staring into the blue.
“This makes me cry…. He looks so happy for Kimi and congratulate Kimi’s family while mercedes break him bad,” @lilacncloe added.
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