Formula 1: Kimi Antonelli Becomes Youngest World Champion at 20
Italian racing driver Kimi Antonelli has made history after becoming the youngest Formula 1 world champion at the age of 20.
The Mercedes driver secured his first Drivers’ Championship after finishing third at the Mexico City Grand Prix on Sunday, November 1, with four races still remaining in the season.
At 20 years and 68 days old, Antonelli broke the long-standing record held by former Red Bull driver Sebastian Vettel. Vettel previously became the youngest F1 world champion at 23 years and 134 days in 2010.
Antonelli Seals Historic Championship in Mexico
Antonelli entered the Mexico City Grand Prix knowing that a ninth-place finish would be enough to secure the title. His championship hopes did not depend on the results of his closest rivals, Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes teammate George Russell.
Red Bull’s Max Verstappen won the race, finishing ahead of Ferrari’s Hamilton. Antonelli crossed the line in third place, earning enough points to confirm his place at the top of the championship standings.
The victory also ended Italy’s 73-year wait for a Formula 1 world champion. Antonelli became the first Italian driver to win the title since Alberto Ascari, who claimed the championship in 1953.
Mercedes Driver Celebrates With Family and Team
The achievement is particularly remarkable because Antonelli is only in his second season in Formula 1.
He celebrated the historic moment alongside his family and members of the Mercedes team, acknowledging their support after the race.
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“We did it. And, you know, without them, I wouldn’t be here. Without Mercedes, without my family,” he said.
Max Verstappen was among the first drivers to congratulate the new champion. He described the moment as special and said he was proud of Antonelli.
“It’s amazing to see the whole team of course, celebrating with him. His family is here as well, so I’m sure this is a very emotional day for him, and I’m very proud of him,” Verstappen said.
At just 20, Kimi Antonelli has now secured his place in Formula 1 history, setting a new record as the sport’s youngest world champion.
