MEXICO CITY — On a historic day in Mexico, which saw the world champion crowned at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez for the sixth time, tributes to Kimi Antonelli, the sport’s youngest champion, flowed as freely as the tears and champagne.
“It’s been an incredible season, and to share this podium with Max and Lewis is truly incredible – looking forward to some more battles in the future,” said Antonelli. “This weekend I did feel a bit more tense, but I’m just so happy that we got it done and now we can enjoy the rest of the season. Thank you so much, Mexico.”
Race winner also saluted the 20-year-old Italian champion.
“It’s incredible what a season he had,” said Verstappen. “To do that at such an age, it’s really, really impressive. It’s amazing to see the whole team, of course, celebrating with him. His family are here as well. I’m sure this is a very emotional day for him, and I’m very proud of him.”
Seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton beamed at the day’s results: “Firstly, look at this crowd,” he said. “We have to acknowledge them, and huge congratulations to Kimi and the Mercedes team. It’s great to see them all up here celebrating their success. Youngest world champion ever – it’s pretty phenomenal, and I’m so grateful to be in the race to witness it.”
Lando Norris, who won the title in 2025, is impressed by Antonelli’s performance.
“Unbelievable,” said the McLaren driver. “I think what he’s done is he’s blown everyone away. I hope everyone gives him enough credit for what he’s achieved this year, because he’s made everyone else look silly, he’s driven that well, and he’s been able to click with his car. He’s worked hard to understand how to drive this car, and he’s exploited it better than anyone else. So he deserves every single bit of success.
“He’s had an unbelievable year, and it’s even more impressive that it’s only his second season in F-1. He’s 20 years old, it’s incredible. So I’m very happy for him, very, very happy for him. And I’m very happy to see my number one go over to him, because he deserves it. So in a way, happy to see it go.”
Oscar Piastri echoed those sentiments.
“He’s done an incredible job I think,” said the Australian. “In his second season in F-1 to accomplish what he’s accomplished this year is very, very impressive. And clearly Mercedes have done a good job around him, giving him the car to deliver, supporting him, and he’s done the business as well, so a very impressive season.”
“I’m obviously very happy for him,” said Ferrari driver Charles Leclere. “I consider myself young, but when I look at him, he’s even younger. And to see his parents underneath the podium being so emotional is a beautiful image. So I’m very, very happy for him.”
