Kimi Antonelli has opened up about the overwhelming support he has received since becoming the youngest Formula 1® World Champion at the age of 20. Securing the 2026 Drivers' Championship with a third-place finish at the Mexico City Grand Prix, Antonelli has reflected on the meaningful messages from fellow drivers and memorable moments following his historic achievement.
Antonelli surpassed Sebastian Vettel’s previous record to claim the title, marking a significant milestone in the sport. He described the influx of support as “incredible,” highlighting a particularly special video message from Vettel himself. Alongside Vettel, other prominent drivers such as Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc, and Lando Norris also reached out with words of encouragement, underscoring the respect Antonelli has earned within the paddock.
In addition to the messages from his peers, Antonelli shared that spending time with the Senna family was an unforgettable experience, adding a personal and emotional dimension to his championship journey. As the season continues, Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team remains in contention for the teams' championship, with the upcoming Sao Paulo Grand Prix offering another opportunity to compete for wins and points.
Antonelli has expressed enthusiasm for the Sao Paulo circuit and its fans, emphasizing his intention to enjoy the remaining races of the season. His reflections reveal a grounded approach despite the early success, focusing on competing strongly and appreciating the support from the Formula 1® community.
The messages from established drivers not only celebrate Antonelli’s achievement but also highlight the camaraderie and mutual respect within the sport. Vettel’s video message stood out as a personal favorite for Antonelli, symbolizing a passing of the torch between generations in Formula 1®.
Mercedes’ pursuit of the teams' championship remains active, with the Sao Paulo Grand Prix presenting a key moment in the closing stages of the season. Antonelli’s focus on enjoying the races and competing for victories aligns with the team’s ongoing objectives as they aim to secure further success.
Antonelli’s comments provide insight into the experience of becoming the youngest world champion in Formula 1®, showing how support from peers and meaningful personal encounters contribute to the significance of this milestone. His outlook ahead of Sao Paulo reflects a balanced mindset, combining ambition with appreciation for the journey so far.