Kimi Antonelli’s first words after becoming the youngest F1 world champion show just how much winning means to him.
Kimi Antonelli has made history by winning his first F1 title, and his first words after the win show just how special this moment is.
The Italian secured the 2026 championship by finishing third behind Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton at the Mexico City GP, becoming the youngest champion ever.
He broke Sebastian Vettel’s 2010 record by winning at just 20 years and 68 days old, beating Vettel’s age of 23 years and 134 days. He’s also Italy’s first world champion in 73 years!
The Mercedes driver has been the best this season, winning nine races. His teammate George Russell and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen each won three races this year. The importance of Antonelli’s achievement was clear when he got emotional on the team radio.
“We did it, we did it! Thank you,” he said.
“Kimi, World Champion!” shouted his race engineer Peter ‘Bono’ Bonnington. “We did it! World champion, we did it!”
After the race, Antonelli spoke to the crowd at the Mexico City track.
“I wouldn’t be here without Mercedes and my family. I’m so thankful for this moment — it’s one I’ll never forget. I’m still trying to take in what just happened.
“This season has been amazing, and standing on the podium with Max and Lewis is unbelievable.”
The race had two big crashes, but on the podium, Antonelli was joined by Verstappen and Hamilton.
Verstappen praised Antonelli for an incredible season and for achieving so much at such a young age.
“It’s amazing to see the whole team and his family here celebrating. This must be a very emotional day for him, and I’m really proud,” Verstappen said.
Hamilton finished second and congratulated Antonelli warmly.
“Big congratulations to Kimi and Mercedes. It’s fantastic to see them celebrating. Becoming the youngest world champion is amazing, and I’m grateful to have been part of the race to see it happen.”