Kimi Antonelli cherishes podium tribute from Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton
Andrea Kimi Antonelli’s 2026 Formula One drivers’ championship was historic before the celebrations even began. At 20 years and 68 days, the Mercedes driver became the youngest world champion in the sport’s history, surpassing Sebastian Vettel’s previous record. His title also ended a 73-year wait for an Italian world champion, making him the first driver from Italy to achieve that feat since Alberto Ascari in 1953.
Yet Antonelli said the most powerful moment of the Mexico City Grand Prix came after the race. Sharing the podium with winner Max Verstappen and runner-up Lewis Hamilton, he was unexpectedly lifted onto their shoulders by the two established stars. Antonelli described the gesture as overwhelming and deeply emotional, saying it represented the respect and appreciation of drivers who have shaped Formula One while continuing to compete at its highest level.
The celebration became an impromptu symbol of a changing generation in the sport. Antonelli said he would always be grateful for the moment and plans to frame the photograph from the podium, preserving a tribute that meant as much to him as the championship records he had just broken.
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