Kimi Antonelli Makes History as Youngest Formula 1 World Champion

Kimi Antonelli has made history by becoming the youngest Formula 1 World Champion after securing third place at the 2026 Mexico City Grand Prix. His achievement has been celebrated by Stefano Domenicali, who praised Antonelli's talent and determination. This victory marks a significant moment for Italy, as Antonelli is the first Italian champion since 1953. The race was filled with challenges, including a mid-race red flag and a late Safety Car, but Antonelli's steady performance ensured his title. This milestone not only highlights his personal success but also serves as an inspiration for future generations of racers.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 2, 2026, 14:07 IST

Kimi Antonelli Achieves Historic Milestone in Formula 1

Stefano Domenicali, the CEO and president of Formula 1, praised Kimi Antonelli for his remarkable achievement in winning the Drivers' Championship. He emphasized that Kimi's success demonstrates to young people that with dedication, belief, and hard work, anything is possible. Antonelli made history by becoming the youngest World Champion in Formula 1 after finishing third at the 2026 Mexico City Grand Prix, which was sufficient to secure the title for the Mercedes driver. Max Verstappen won the race, finishing ahead of Lewis Hamilton. The 20-year-old Italian entered the 71-lap race at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez needing only a ninth-place finish to clinch his first F1 world title, regardless of the performances of his rivals Hamilton and George Russell, as stated on the Formula 1 website.

Domenicali Celebrates Kimi's Historic Win

In a subsequent statement, Stefano described Kimi's victory as an "extraordinary achievement," attributing it to his "exceptional talent, courage, and determination." He expressed immense pride in Kimi becoming the first Italian Formula 1 World Champion since Alberto Ascari in 1953. "For 73 years, our country has awaited this moment, and today, an entire nation celebrates one of its own reaching the pinnacle of our sport," he remarked.

Inspiring Future Generations

Stefano also noted that greatness is measured not just by records but by the inspiration it provides to future generations. "Kimi has captured the hearts of millions globally, showing young people that with dedication, belief, and hard work, anything is achievable. Today, young boys and girls watching will see Kimi as proof that their biggest dreams can come true," he added. The F1 president remarked that a new chapter has begun in F1 history, marking the start of an extraordinary legacy. "Congratulations to Kimi, Mercedes, and his family on this remarkable achievement. The entire Formula 1 community is proud to celebrate this moment with them," he concluded.

Race Highlights and Key Results

Starting from the fourth position, Antonelli executed a steady race to finish third, despite facing multiple interruptions. He navigated a mid-race red flag due to a serious crash involving Valtteri Bottas and a late Safety Car period caused by an incident with Arvid Lindblad. Verstappen secured his third victory of the season, fending off a late challenge from Hamilton. After starting fifth, the Red Bull driver took advantage of a fierce battle between the Ferrari drivers to move into the lead. Verstappen initially climbed to second on the first lap before taking the lead when Charles Leclerc received a time penalty for track violations while contending with polesitter Hamilton. The Dutchman maintained his lead through the standing restart and held firm against Hamilton's pressure to take the chequered flag. Leclerc finished fourth after resisting a late charge from Lando Norris, while Russell claimed fifth for Mercedes. Liam Lawson rounded out the top six for Racing Bulls after starting from the pit lane.