Before Lewis Hamilton became world champion, he left a message for Kimi Antonelli on the wall of his Mercedes room.
Kimi Antonelli made history by becoming the youngest Formula 1 champion ever at the Mexican Grand Prix on Sunday, and Lewis Hamilton shared a very special message for the young Italian star.
Antonelli broke Sebastian Vettel’s 2010 record by winning the F1 title at just 20 years and 68 days old. It’s been an amazing season for him, with nine race wins and 16 times on the podium. Finishing third in Mexico was all he needed to lock in the title. Now, he’s set to join Mercedes in 2025, taking over Lewis Hamilton’s spot alongside George Russell — a perfect way to follow in one of the sport’s greats.
Hamilton won six of his seven championships during 12 years with Mercedes before moving to Ferrari, earning his place as one of the best drivers ever. His last season with Mercedes was emotional, especially when he realized he wouldn’t be using his old locker in the team’s European motorhome after the Italian Grand Prix.
Stephen Lord, one of Hamilton’s close friends, shared how Lewis left a heartfelt handwritten note for Kimi on the wall of his new room. On a December 2024 episode of Beyond The Grid, Lord said, “It was a nice note welcoming Kimi, wishing him good luck, and saying the team will support him if he cares about them. It was a really kind gesture.” The note is now protected behind glass, so it will be there forever.
Lord also found a fun little message from Lewis in the bathroom that said, “Lewis was here” with a smiley face. But the note to Kimi was something extra special.
This kind message showed how much Hamilton admired Antonelli even before he took over at Mercedes.
Looking back on his first F1 season in May 2025, which he described as “emotionally draining,” Antonelli talked about how much the letter meant to him.
“It shows a lot about who Lewis is as a person, not just a driver,” Kimi said. “Reading his message really touched my heart. To get such kind words and advice from someone so great in the sport is amazing and motivates me to do my best.”
He also said he keeps the letter right on the wall in his room as a daily reminder.
Since then, Kimi and Lewis have shown great respect for each other, even as competitors. After Kimi’s big win in Mexico, Hamilton congratulated him warmly on Instagram:
“Big congratulations to the new champion, @kimi.antonelli. Watching your journey and celebrating with you was a highlight of my year. The record you set will stand for a long time. It was fantastic to see Mercedes celebrating with you. Enjoy the moment, stay close to your family, and keep your passion and energy.”