Italian driver Kimi Antonelli has made history by becoming the youngest Formula One world champion at the age of 20 years and 68 days. He achieved this feat by finishing third in his Mercedes at the Mexico Grand Prix. Antonelli's victory marks a significant milestone in his career, with nine wins so far this season. He expressed his gratitude to Mercedes and his family, stating that he wouldn't be in this position without their support.
The Mexico Grand Prix was a thrilling event, with Max Verstappen taking the chequered flag. However, Antonelli's third-place finish was enough to secure his position as the youngest world champion, surpassing Sebastian Vettel's record set in 2010. Antonelli is the first Italian to win the title since Alberto Ascari in 1953. His teammate, George Russell, was out of the running after a poor start, and Lewis Hamilton's hopes of prolonging the title race were dashed.
The race was suspended after 46 of the 71 laps due to a crash involving Valtteri Bottas's Cadillac. The Finn's suspension collapsed, causing his wheel to buckle, and he crashed into the barriers. Fortunately, Bottas emerged unharmed and waved to the crowd as he walked away. The incident led to a restart, with Antonelli running third behind Verstappen and Charles Leclerc.
Antonelli's nearest challenger, George Russell, struggled with his power and dropped to fifth. He needed to win to keep his title hopes alive, but ultimately finished outside the top three. Lewis Hamilton, who started on pole, was furious with Leclerc after an incident at the start that saw Leclerc leave the track and steal the lead. Leclerc was handed a five-second penalty but retained track superiority over Hamilton.
The restart saw Hamilton power past Antonelli and Leclerc, bumping wheels with Verstappen before settling into second. There was a further yellow flag when Arvid Lindblad's Racing Bull crashed out 10 laps from the end after tangling with Oscar Piastri's McLaren. Antonelli maintained his third position, securing his championship title.
Antonelli's emotional reaction was evident as he crossed the line, in tears and surrounded by two of the all-time great drivers, Hamilton and Verstappen, who have 11 championships between them. He credited his team and family for their support, stating that this moment will stay with him forever.
The Mexico Grand Prix was a dramatic and eventful race, with several incidents and a thrilling conclusion. Antonelli's historic win marks a new era in Formula One, with the young Italian driver poised to make a lasting impact on the sport. His achievement is a testament to his skill and dedication, and he looks forward to future battles with his competitors.
Key points
- Kimi Antonelli becomes the youngest Formula One world champion at 20 years and 68 days.
- Antonelli wins the title with nine wins so far this season.
- He is the first Italian to win the title since Alberto Ascari in 1953.
