Kimi Antonelli made Formula One history on Sunday by becoming the youngest world champion in the sport’s history after securing the 2026 Drivers’ Championship at the Mexico City Grand Prix. The 20-year-old Italian clinched his maiden title with a third-place finish for Mercedes in an eventful race won by Red Bull’s Max Verstappen.
Antonelli, aged 20 years and 68 days, surpassed the previous record held by Sebastian Vettel, who became champion at 23 years and 134 days in 2010. His achievement also makes him the first Italian Formula One world champion since Alberto Ascari in 1953.
Starting fourth on the grid at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, Antonelli needed only to finish ninth or higher to guarantee the championship, irrespective of the results of his closest rivals, Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes teammate George Russell.
The young driver delivered a composed performance despite several dramatic moments during the 71-lap race. A heavy crash involving Valtteri Bottas brought out a red flag, while a late Safety Car period followed another incident involving Arvid Lindblad and Oscar Piastri.
Antonelli maintained his composure through the interruptions and crossed the finish line in third place, securing his 16th podium of the season and an unassailable championship lead.
Verstappen Wins Dramatic Mexico City Grand Prix
While Antonelli celebrated his historic achievement, Max Verstappen secured victory for Red Bull after holding off Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton in the closing stages.
Hamilton started from pole position and initially led the race, but an intense opening-lap battle involving Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc allowed Verstappen to move into contention. Leclerc received a five-second penalty for gaining an advantage by leaving the track.
Verstappen eventually took control and successfully defended his position following the race restart. Hamilton finished second, just 0.799 seconds behind the Dutchman, while Antonelli completed the podium.
Charles Leclerc finished fourth, followed by McLaren’s Lando Norris in fifth. George Russell finished sixth, while Oscar Piastri took seventh.
An Emotional Moment for Antonelli and Mercedes
Antonelli struggled to contain his emotions after crossing the finish line. His race engineer, Peter Bonnington, congratulated him over the team radio, announcing that he was the new world champion.
The Italian thanked Mercedes, his family and everyone who supported him throughout his journey.
“We did it. And, you know, without them, I wouldn’t be here. Without Mercedes, without my family. So I’m very grateful for this moment, and it’s one that will live forever,” Antonelli said.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff also praised the young driver’s remarkable journey, highlighting the team’s decision to promote him to Formula One at such an early age.
Antonelli’s championship victory marks a significant milestone for Mercedes and Italian motorsport. Having secured the title with four races remaining, the young driver has established himself as one of Formula One’s brightest talents.
With the championship decided, attention now turns to the remaining races of the 2026 season, beginning with the Brazilian Grand Prix scheduled for November 6-8.