Kimi Antonelli has become the youngest F1 world champion in history after finishing third at a chaotic Mexico City Grand Prix. The 20-year-old Mercedes driver started fifth on the grid and needed only a ninth-place finish to secure the title, but crossed the line in third to make history.
Title Clinched Amid Chaos
Antonelli's path to the championship was confirmed at the Mexican circuit, where he navigated a race marked by incidents and drama. His third-place result was more than enough to seal the drivers' crown, capping a standout season in just his second year in Formula 1.
The achievement places the young Italian ahead of every previous record holder, marking a significant milestone for both the driver and the Mercedes team.
Norris Praises Antonelli
Ahead of the deciding race, McLaren's Lando Norris had already tipped Antonelli for success. "He's done an incredible job and done it in a pretty incredible way," Norris said.
"People are saying he hasn't had any tough competition this year. That proves the point that he's done such an incredible job. He's got a very, very talented team-mate that he's beaten through the whole season."
Norris added: "I have nothing but respect for Kimi. He's a very nice guy. We get along very well and I'm more than happy to pass the No 1 over to him. He deserves it. He's done an incredible job, especially in his second year in Formula 1. Youngest world champion, it's pretty insane. I enjoy other people having that kind of success. It's nice to see."
A Historic Achievement
Antonelli's title is the result of a dominant campaign, in which he beat a highly rated team-mate throughout the season. The Mexico City Grand Prix victory in the standings confirms his place in the record books as the sport's youngest-ever champion.
