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Historic Title Clinched at Mexico City Grand Prix
Formula 1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali praised Kimi Antonelli after the Mercedes driver clinched the 2026 Drivers' Championship with a third-place finish at the Mexico City Grand Prix on Sunday. Securing the crown at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez at 20 years and 68 days of age, Antonelli became the youngest world champion in the sport's history. The achievement also ended a 73-year wait for Italy, making Antonelli the country's first Formula 1 world champion since Alberto Ascari in 1953.
Domenicali Praises Historic Italian Milestone
In a post-race statement, Domenicali described Antonelli's coronation as an extraordinary milestone earned through exceptional talent, courage, and determination, expressing immense pride in seeing an Italian driver reach the pinnacle of Formula 1 after a 73-year wait. He reflected that an entire nation would celebrate one of its own reaching the summit of the sport, noting that greatness is measured not only by records but by the generations it inspires. Domenicali highlighted that Antonelli has captured the imagination of millions of motorsport fans across the globe, demonstrating to young people that belief, dedication, and hard work leave no limits on what can be accomplished, while young boys and girls watching would see proof that the biggest dreams can become reality.
Beyond the record books, the young Italian's breakthrough could have an enduring impact on aspiring competitors worldwide, offering a powerful example of what determination and commitment can accomplish. The championship victory positions Antonelli among the defining figures of the category and provides Italy with a new hero to celebrate on the global motorsport stage.
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Third-Place Finish Amid Safety Cars and Red Flags
Antonelli entered the 71-lap contest aware that finishing inside the top nine would guarantee the championship regardless of how his closest rivals, Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes teammate George Russell, performed. Starting fourth on the grid, the Italian driver maintained his composure across an afternoon disrupted by a red flag after a heavy accident involving Valtteri Bottas, followed by a late safety car when Arvid Lindblad crashed. Antonelli's third-place result proved sufficient to secure the crown, while Max Verstappen claimed the race victory ahead of second-placed Hamilton.
Surpassing Vettel's Record as Youngest Champion
Antonelli's triumph surpassed Sebastian Vettel's record as the youngest world champion in Formula 1 history. Vettel was 23 years and 134 days old when he secured his maiden title driving for Red Bull in 2010.
Antonelli's name now joins the legends of the sport, writing a new chapter in Formula 1 history that represents the start of an extraordinary legacy. Domenicali extended congratulations to Antonelli, Mercedes, and his family on the achievement, stating that the entire Formula 1 community is proud to celebrate this special moment with them.
Title Standings Advantage Ahead of Sao Paulo
With the result in Mexico, Antonelli established an unassailable 119-point lead at the top of the Drivers' Championship standings. Verstappen advanced into second place in the table, while Russell dropped to fourth, trailing his Mercedes teammate by 130 points. The 2026 Formula 1 campaign heads next to Brazil for the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, scheduled to run from November 6 to 8.
