Wolff Hails Antonelli as 'Role Model for Modern F1'

In a remarkable turn of events, Kimi Antonelli, aged just 20, has claimed the Formula One world championship, marking him as the youngest ever champion in the sport's history ¹². This achievement comes after a thrilling race in Mexico City, where Antonelli secured his first world title, solidifying his place among the legends of F1 ¹.

Antonelli's journey to the top has been nothing short of extraordinary. Since being spotted by Toto Wolff at the tender age of 12, Antonelli has been groomed meticulously for success, showcasing exceptional talent and determination ¹². His decision to retain the number 12 on his car, rather than adopting the traditional number 1 for champions, adds a personal touch to his legacy ¹.

The accolades for Antonelli have poured in from all corners of the F1 community. Notable figures such as Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen, and Lando Norris have all expressed their admiration for the young champion ¹. Even George Russell acknowledged Antonelli's fair and competitive spirit on the track ¹. These endorsements highlight the respect and admiration Antonelli has garnered within the sport.

Stefano Domenicali, President of the FIA, and Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), see Antonelli as the embodiment of the qualities they aspire to see in F1 drivers—qualities like skill, sportsmanship, and a relentless drive for excellence ¹.

Looking ahead, there are still four races left in the 2026 F1 season, with the next one set to take place in Brazil, a country close to Antonelli's heart due to his admiration for the legendary Ayrton Senna ². Antonelli recently took over Lewis Hamilton's position in the Mercedes team for the 2024 season, further cementing his status as a rising star in the sport ².

Wolff, who has been instrumental in Antonelli's development, is confident that the young champion will continue to challenge for more titles in the future, setting new benchmarks in the world of F1 ².

What we know

• - Kimi Antonelli is the Formula One world champion ¹²
• - Antonelli is the youngest F1 champion at 20 years old ¹²
• - Toto Wolff has nurtured Antonelli since he was 12 years old ¹²
• - Antonelli secured his first world title in Mexico City ¹
• - Antonelli kept his number 12 instead of adopting the champion's number 1 ¹
• - Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen, and Lando Norris praised Antonelli ¹
• - George Russell acknowledged Antonelli's fair approach to racing ¹
• - Stefano Domenicali and Mohammed Ben Sulayem view Antonelli as embodying desired qualities in F1 drivers ¹
• - There are four races left in the 2026 F1 season ²
• - The next race is in Brazil, the home of Antonelli's racing hero, Ayrton Senna ²
• - Antonelli replaced Lewis Hamilton in the Mercedes team in 2024 ²
• - Wolff expects Antonelli to compete for more F1 titles in the future ²