Formula 1 has its youngest-ever world champion. Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli clinched the title by finishing third at the Mexico City Grand Prix. He is only 20 years old, breaking Sebastian Vettel's 2010 record of 23 by more than three years. Four races remain in the season, but his lead over teammate George Russell had already grown too wide to overturn.
Antonelli made his F1 debut last year, taking over the seat Lewis Hamilton left behind when he moved to Ferrari. In his second season this year, he became the youngest driver ever to take pole position and to lead the championship. His nine wins this season are also the most ever by an Italian driver in a single season. The numbers speak to how quickly his talent has bloomed.
For Italy, this title is even more special. Antonelli is the first Italian champion in 73 years, since Alberto Ascari in 1953. The records he has set on track are already historic, but his career is only just beginning. Being crowned at 20 means there are many more stories left to write.
Youth is sometimes read as inexperience, but Antonelli turned it into a weapon. Mercedes bet on him, and he delivered an answer in just two seasons. What he showed on track was not just speed but unwavering focus. The records he writes next may rewrite F1 history itself.
What kind of champion do you want to remember?
Antonelli made his F1 debut last year, taking over the seat Lewis Hamilton left behind when he moved to Ferrari. In his second season this year, he became the youngest driver ever to take pole position and to lead the championship. His nine wins this season are also the most ever by an Italian driver in a single season. The numbers speak to how quickly his talent has bloomed.
For Italy, this title is even more special. Antonelli is the first Italian champion in 73 years, since Alberto Ascari in 1953. The records he has set on track are already historic, but his career is only just beginning. Being crowned at 20 means there are many more stories left to write.
Youth is sometimes read as inexperience, but Antonelli turned it into a weapon. Mercedes bet on him, and he delivered an answer in just two seasons. What he showed on track was not just speed but unwavering focus. The records he writes next may rewrite F1 history itself.
What kind of champion do you want to remember?
FAQ
How old was Kimi Antonelli when he became F1 World Champion?
Kimi Antonelli became F1 World Champion at age 20. He secured the title with third place at the Mexico City Grand Prix, breaking Sebastian Vettel's 2010 record by more than three years.
How many wins did Kimi Antonelli achieve this season?
Kimi Antonelli achieved nine wins this season, setting a new record for the most victories in a single season by an Italian driver.
Who was the Italian F1 Champion before Kimi Antonelli?
Alberto Ascari was the Italian F1 Champion before Kimi Antonelli. Antonelli became Italy's first champion in 73 years, since Ascari's 1953 victory.
