NEWS
World Champion Antonelli: "Simply happy to have done it"
The Italian rewards himself in his second year in Formula 1. He not only ends a 73-year dry spell but also writes great F1 history.
It was a Tequila party!
Kimi Antonelli is already celebrating his first World Championship title in Mexico in his still very young Formula 1 career. The Italian not only makes all of Italy cheer but also writes sports history as the youngest champion of all time.
Naturally, the only 20-year-old is overcome with pure joy.
Antonelli after his World Championship title: "I am speechless!"
Just one year ago, a World Championship title for Kimi Antonelli seemed rather unthinkable. Although Mercedes entered the championship as a big favourite after the new regulations, George Russell was probably more expected to be the world champion.
However, Antonelli celebrated his first race win in the premier class in China and then showed himself to be significantly more stable overall than Russell.
Ultimately, four races before the World Championship final, provided Formula 1 does not decide to cancel in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, the World Championship title is already absolutely secured.
"We did it!", Antonelli cheered shortly afterwards in the winner's interview with former German world champion Nico Rosberg. "I am speechless! It was an incredible season," the beaming Italian added.
He admitted that he had been "a bit more tense" this weekend due to the chance for the world title. "Now I'm simply happy that we made it."
Antonelli breaks Vettel's record and ends a long wait
With the World Championship title, the Mercedes youngster also breaks a 16-year-old record. Antonelli replaces Sebastian Vettel as the youngest world champion of all time. The German secured the World Championship title at the 2010 World Championship final in Abu Dhabi at the age of 23.
He clearly breaks this record at just 20 years and 68 days old. "To achieve something like this at that age is impressive," Verstappen also praised his young rival.
Furthermore, Antonelli ends a dire dry spell for Italy. For the first time since Alberto Ascari 73 years ago, the "Tifosi" can rejoice over an F1 champion.
Only a small fly in the ointment remains for the great Italian heart. Because with Antonelli, there is no Ferrari title, but a "silver" World Champion.
However, the Italians should be able to forgive him for that. Antonelli: "I am so grateful for this moment. It is a day I will always remember."
Rightly so.
