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Early Championship Triumph in Mexico City
Kimi Antonelli and Mercedes celebrated in Mexico City, where the 20-year-old Italian driver made history as the youngest champion by age, securing the title early with four Grands Prix still remaining. Mercedes also closed in on the constructors' title. The newly crowned champion finished third in the grand prix, an event highlighted as Antonelli becomes youngest F1 champion as Verstappen wins in Mexico.
Antonelli Reflects on Milestone and Mercedes Consistency
Speaking after the race, Antonelli described the occasion as a day he would remember forever, expressing enormous thanks to his team, his family, his friends, and all the supporters for their backing. The Italian driver stated that the milestone was beginning to feel real and declared his intention to enjoy the experience to the fullest. Antonelli noted that Mercedes provided an extremely strong car from very early in the season and displayed great consistency, adding that he believed early on in their chances to succeed before successfully concluding the effort.
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Verstappen Overcomes Chaotic Start and Praises Champion
Race winner Max Verstappen secured victory for Red Bull – Ford after withstanding late pressure. Verstappen recounted that track conditions were very chaotic, explaining that the initial start decided the contest in his favour. After delivering a very strong opening lap, the Dutch driver credited sound strategy, though he felt the car lacked a little speed. Verstappen revealed that he sweated heavily near the finish to keep Lewis Hamilton behind him, before praising Antonelli for producing an incredible campaign at such a young age and expressing immense pride on an emotional day.
Hamilton Assesses Ferrari Pace and Lauds Record
Finishing second for Ferrari, Hamilton opened by acknowledging the spectators, stating that credit belonged to the assembled crowd before congratulating Antonelli and Mercedes. Hamilton called becoming the youngest champion of all time truly impressive. Turning to his own grand prix, the Ferrari driver admitted it was a difficult day, explaining that the team possessed the pace to win but circumstances prevented it. Hamilton noted that the squad would examine the race away from the public eye to establish what could be improved behind the scenes.
Age Benchmarks Across Formula 1 History
Prior to Antonelli, German driver Sebastian Vettel stood as the youngest driver to secure the championship title. The German was 23 years and 133 days old when he claimed his first crown with Red Bull in 2010. Lewis Hamilton was 23 years and 300 days old when he won the title with McLaren in 2008, capturing the crown in his second season just as Antonelli did. Fernando Alonso was 24 years and 57 days old when he claimed the 2005 championship with Renault, while Max Verstappen was 24 years and 73 days old when he triumphed with Red Bull in 2021.
