Toto Wolff enforced a ban on Mercedes producing championship t-shirts for Kimi Antonelli during the Mexican GP weekend, deeming such items to bring bad luck. Antonelli secured his first Formula 1 World Championship by finishing third in Mexico City, becoming the youngest champion since Sebastian Vettel.
The 20-year-old Italian only needed to finish ninth to claim the title, but the Mercedes team principal took nothing for granted. Wolff's superstition was one of several measures taken by the team and Antonelli's family to avoid piling pressure on the young driver.
Family Delays Arrival to Reduce Distraction
Antonelli's relatives also played their part, arriving in Mexico late to avoid distracting him before the race. After the championship was confirmed, Antonelli shared an emotional embrace with his family, who had delayed their arrival to help him focus on the task at hand.
Despite Wolff's ban on official commemorative shirts, some team members made a 'Champion of the world' hat for Antonelli, along with a personalised shirt. He was handed his own version, but nobody else at Mercedes received one.
Emotional Final Laps and Season Ahead
Speaking after the race, Antonelli admitted to feeling emotional during the closing laps. He said: "I think I lost probably two seconds because I was already crying. I couldn't see clearly ahead – and I could see two Ferraris somehow with the tears!"
He added: "A lot of memories went through my mind in that moment. All the memories since karting. So, it was a very special final lap and definitely, when I crossed the line, I let it all out because achieving one of my biggest dreams is very special. To be able to share this moment, to witness this moment with my whole family, with my team, and for my friends as well, it's a moment that will be always remembered."
Four races remain in the season, and given Wolff's fastidious approach, Antonelli is unlikely to be allowed to ease off before the campaign concludes.
