Kimi Antonelli Becomes Youngest Formula 1 Champion at Mexico Grand Prix

Kimi Antonelli's championship came in only his second Formula 1 season. The Mercedes driver exceeded expectations to become the sport's youngest world champion at 20, according to Guardian Sport.

His route was not straightforward. Times of India described a difficult rookie campaign in 2025, when he struggled with the pressure of replacing Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes. A season later, he had turned that beginning into a historic title.

Antonelli secured the championship in Mexico City on November 1. He finished third for Mercedes in a race interrupted by a red flag and restarted, becoming champion at 20 years and 68 days old, France24 reported.

The race tested more than his pace. DIE WELT described crashes, red flags and an exhausting wait before Antonelli emerged as the youngest champion in Formula 1 history.

By November 2, the achievement had become a national celebration. Antonelli was the first Italian to win the championship since 1953, ending a 73-year wait stretching back to Alberto Ascari, according to L'Équipe.

On November 3, Fanpage reported a smaller detail from the championship weekend. Emma, a 10-year-old Mexican kart racer, had given Antonelli a bracelet before the race. He was still wearing it on the podium.

A mechanical scare emerged on November 4. According to Rss, Mercedes revealed that Antonelli's oil sump was cracked and his engine nearly failed during the final four laps. The car held together, preserving his podium finish.

Antonelli has the drivers' championship secured, but Mercedes still has another title to pursue. Arab News reported on November 5 that he was targeting the constructors' championship at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, with teammate George Russell also seeking a return to winning form.

He also intends to keep his number 12 next season. According to ANSA.it, Antonelli sees that choice as a way to stay focused and keep his feet on the ground.

Sao Paulo is the immediate test: whether Antonelli and Russell can turn the drivers' title into a championship double for Mercedes. That team objective gives Antonelli a concrete target despite having settled his own championship, according to Arab News.

The remaining races also begin his next campaign. BBC Sport reported on November 5 that Antonelli is treating them as the start of his preparation to defend the title in 2027.