Antonelli becomes youngest F1 champion, Mercedes boss compares to Rossi

Kimi Antonelli, 20, has become the youngest Formula 1 world champion in history, marking the first Italian to win the title in over 70 years. He finished third in Mexico City but secured his first title, setting a new benchmark in the sport.

Bradley Lord, Mercedes' deputy team principal, praised Antonelli's potential to emulate Valentino Rossi as a global ambassador for Italy. Lord noted Antonelli's achievement as unprecedented and highlighted his talent and charisma.

Lord compared Antonelli to Lewis Hamilton, emphasizing their shared qualities of talent and a connection to Ayrton Senna. He also pointed out that Rossi's success in MotoGP demonstrated Italy's ability to embrace and elevate a national hero.

Antonelli's victory comes after replacing Hamilton at Mercedes, with the team's recent financial success and projected $1bn revenue from upcoming accounts. Lord acknowledged Antonelli's rising marketability, especially in Italy, where his popularity is growing rapidly.

Lord emphasized that Antonelli's priority remains performance, stating that his success will stem from his ability to race quickly and consistently. He also noted Antonelli's genuine personality and appeal beyond Italy, with plans to expand his global reach in upcoming races.

Antonelli shared the podium with Max Verstappen and Hamilton, who celebrated his achievement by lifting him onto their shoulders. The moment symbolized the significance of his historic win and the recognition it has garnered within the sport.