The Mexico Grand Prix 2026 will be remembered, as Kimi Antonelli has been crowned the youngest world champion in Formula 1. This milestone, partly due to super license regulations, will be difficult to surpass for future contenders.
After a brilliant performance in Austin, Antonelli knew that securing the title would be almost a formality. However, the young Italian admitted that nerves got the better of him during the race weekend in Mexico.
Antonelli explained that, while in Austin he was more aggressive and present, in Mexico he felt more tense during qualifying. Nevertheless, he managed to put the nerves behind him during the race, experiencing a moment of insecurity especially during the final lap.
An emotional final lap
On the final lap, Antonelli confessed to slowing down because he couldn’t see the track. ‘I was excited, and I decided it was better to take it easy to avoid an accident,’ the new champion commented. This way, he fulfilled one of his biggest dreams.
An unforgettable moment on the podium
After the race, Antonelli was greeted by his parents and shared the podium with two legends of motorsport: Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen. His satisfaction intensified when these two drivers lifted him onto their shoulders, a moment that Antonelli expressed a desire to keep in the form of a photograph.
‘I will definitely get the picture framed and put it up at home, because it was an incredible moment,’ Antonelli stated. It is truly an instant he will always remember, as it represents the respect from his idols, who have made history in this sport.
The new champion shared other emotional anecdotes, including the songs that were played during the ceremony, recalling his grandfather, which added even more emotion to the moment. ‘It was unforgettable to hear the music he loved so much,’ Antonelli concluded.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
