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Final Lap Emotions in Mexico City
With one lap remaining before crossing the finish line, Kimi Antonelli was overwhelmed with tears, admitting he could barely see straight and could scarcely distinguish two Ferraris. The Italian driver, aged 20 years and 68 days, became the youngest champion in Formula 1 history following his coronation in Mexico on Sunday. His third-place finish at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, behind Dutchman Max Verstappen and Britain’s Lewis Hamilton, secured his first title and gave Italy its first championship in more than 70 years.
Securing the Title in the Standings
Finishing third on Sunday lifted Antonelli to 380 points, putting him out of reach of the competitors directly behind him in the classification, Verstappen and Hamilton. His podium at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez sealed the title outcome as Antonelli becomes youngest F1 champion as Verstappen wins in Mexico.
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Podium Celebrations and Karting Memories
After the race, the two former champions lifted Antonelli into their arms in celebration. In the post-race press conference, Antonelli said he would definitely frame the photograph to place in his house because of the incredible moment, calling it a milestone that will leave a mark and be remembered. He explained that fulfilling one of his greatest dreams was deeply special, adding that many memories flooded his mind as he crossed the finish line, from his karting beginnings up to reaching this point.
Campaign Consistency and Answering Critics
Antonelli explained that the primary factor in his success was season-long consistency, observing that even when circumstances appeared slightly complicated, the team still managed to achieve reasonable results. The Italian stated that the title also arrived to quiet the noise from criticism he had received, recalling that some had asserted he did not belong in Formula 1 or was not prepared for it.
Honouring Ayrton Senna with Car Number 12
Antonelli also became the first driver to secure a championship using car number 12 since his idol Ayrton Senna accomplished the feat in 1988. A special helmet honouring the Brazilian driver will also be used during the race in São Paulo. Describing 12 as a very special number, Antonelli said it serves as a way to keep his feet on the ground and remain humble. Explaining that he is superstitious, he noted that number 1 did not bring him good luck and that things went extremely wrong whenever he used it, giving him another reason to stick with number 12.
Celebration Plans Across São Paulo and Las Vegas
Looking ahead to celebrations, Antonelli said he will celebrate with family and friends in Mexico before staging a larger celebration at home after returning from the São Paulo Grand Prix next week. Smiling, he acknowledged that he would probably not arrive in his best condition for Las Vegas, but accepted that prospect cheerfully.
