Youngest F1 champion Antonelli reflects on Senna’s influence

Kimi Antonelli, the youngest Formula One world champion at just 20 years old, paid tribute to his childhood hero Ayrton Senna on Wednesday. Prior to the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, he met with members of Senna's family and even sat in the cockpit of the Brazilian legend's 1986 Lotus. Antonelli also visited Senna's grave for the second year in a row, expressing his admiration for the late driver's talent, dedication, and passion for the sport.

Despite being frequently compared to Senna this season, Antonelli said he was still processing the emotional experience of connecting with Senna's family and reflecting on the past weekend's events on and off the track. A video message from four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel, who broke Vettel's record as the youngest champion, emphasized the importance of staying grounded and continuing to pursue success in the sport.

Antonelli credits last year's second-place finish at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix for providing the momentum that led him to this championship-winning season, stating that his goal remains to win as much as possible and to improve and come back even stronger.