Italian racing sensation Kimi Antonelli has created history by becoming the youngest Formula 1 world champion ever. The 20-year-old Mercedes driver clinched his maiden Drivers' Championship after finishing third at the Mexico City Grand Prix on Sunday, November 1, 2026.
With this achievement, Antonelli has broken the long-standing record held by Sebastian Vettel, who became the youngest F1 world champion at the age of 23 years and 134 days in 2010. Antonelli secured the historic title at just 20 years and 68 days old.
Starting fourth on the grid, Antonelli needed only a ninth-place finish to guarantee the championship, irrespective of the results of his closest rivals, Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes teammate George Russell. However, the young Italian went a step further, delivering a composed performance to secure a podium finish.
The Mexican Grand Prix itself was filled with drama. Red Bull's Max Verstappen claimed victory, finishing ahead of Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton. Antonelli crossed the finish line in third place, enough to confirm his position at the top of the championship standings.
The race also witnessed a major interruption after Valtteri Bottas crashed heavily, bringing out the red flag. A later Safety Car period followed another incident involving Arvid Lindblad. Despite the interruptions and pressure, Antonelli maintained his composure and secured the result he needed.
A Historic Achievement for Italy and Mercedes
Antonelli's championship marks the end of Italy's 73-year wait for a Formula 1 drivers' world champion. The last Italian to achieve the feat was Alberto Ascari, who won the title in 1952 and 1953.
His triumph also gives Mercedes its first Drivers' Championship since Lewis Hamilton's title-winning campaign in 2020. It is the team's 10th drivers' world championship overall.
Antonelli's journey to the top has been remarkable. Mercedes brought him into its junior driver programme when he was just 12 years old. He made his Formula 1 debut in 2025, replacing Hamilton after the seven-time world champion moved to Ferrari.
In his second season, Antonelli emerged as a consistent championship contender, winning nine races and establishing himself as one of the leading drivers on the grid.
Following his historic victory, Antonelli expressed his emotions, saying that becoming a world champion was an incredible moment that he would remember for the rest of his life. He also thanked Mercedes, his family and everyone who supported his journey.
At just 20, Kimi Antonelli has already rewritten Formula 1 history. His maiden championship marks the beginning of a new chapter for the young Italian and Mercedes.
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