Antonelli crowned youngest ever F1 champion as Verstappen wins Mexico City GP
Mercedes prodigy Kimi Antonelli secured the 2026 F1 crown, breaking Sebastian Vettel’s age record.
Kimi Antonelli secured Formula One's youngest world championship title and Italy's first since 1953 after finishing third in the Mexico City Grand Prix. The 20-year-old Mercedes driver achieved this milestone with a blend of audacity and professionalism, securing his 16th podium finish of the season. The race was marked by two safety cars and a red flag stoppage.
Antonelli expressed his gratitude upon returning to the team, stating, "We did it. I am so grateful for this moment - and it is one I will live forever. I'm speechless, just trying to process what has happened." At 20 years and 68 days old, Antonelli became the youngest champion by over three years to Sebastian Vettel, Italy's first champion since Alberto Ascari in 1953.
In a two-part race divided by a 45-minute pause due to Valtteri Bottas' crash, Red Bull's Verstappen won by 0.799 seconds, Hamilton came in second, and Antonelli placed third, 3.207 seconds behind.
Written by urgent.news from Malay Mail's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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