New world champion Kimi Antonelli is lifted by Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen on the podium

Credit : AP/Eduardo Verdugo

It was the first time his emotions had betrayed him all day. Sobbing uncontrollably over his radio after crossing the line in Mexico in third place to become the youngest world champion in Formula One history, Kimi Antonelli just about managed to thank his Mercedes team for their support.

“We did it, we did it, thank you so much,” the 20-year-old Italian blurted out between sobs. You could hardly blame him. Fifteen months ago, Antonelli was crying for a very different reason after finishing 18th in qualifying at Spa-Francorchamps. In the midst of a rookie season slump, there were those questioning whether he had been promoted too soon.

The emotions 🥹❤️

#F1 #MexicoGP https://t.co/PVP3P3cp5f

— Formula 1 (@F1) November 1, 2026

Now he has fulfilled his life’s dream in only his second season in the sport, while barely out of short trousers.…