Kimi Antonelli secured his first Formula 1® World Drivers’ Championship by finishing third at the 2026 Mexico City Grand Prix, becoming the youngest-ever champion in the sport's history and the first Italian to claim the title in 73 years. His podium finish at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez confirmed an unassailable lead with races still remaining in the season.
Starting the race from fourth on the grid, Antonelli overtook Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc to secure third place behind race winner Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing and Mercedes teammate Lewis Hamilton, who finished second. With a total of 380 points accumulated over 19 rounds, Antonelli’s championship victory was mathematically confirmed at this stage of the season.
The achievement marked a significant milestone not only for Antonelli but also for Mercedes, as the Italian driver expressed heartfelt gratitude towards his team, family, and supporters. He described the moment as unforgettable and characterized the season as “incredible,” acknowledging the pressure he felt during the race weekend but also his satisfaction in securing the title. Antonelli joins the ranks of previous champions Graham Hill and Denny Hulme, who also clinched their titles at this circuit.
The Mexico City Grand Prix saw Max Verstappen take the race victory, with Lewis Hamilton securing second place, while Antonelli’s third place was enough to confirm his championship status. Charles Leclerc, who was overtaken by Antonelli during the race, finished just outside the podium positions. This result further emphasized the competitive nature of the race and the ongoing battles among the top drivers and teams.
Antonelli’s rise to the championship is notable for his youth and the historical significance of his title as the first Italian world champion since 1953. His performance throughout the season has demonstrated consistency and resilience, culminating in this defining moment in Mexico City. Despite the pressure, Antonelli maintained focus and composure to secure the necessary points for the championship.
Looking ahead, Antonelli expressed enthusiasm for the remainder of the season and the challenges it will bring. His comments reflected a grounded perspective on his achievement, highlighting the support from Mercedes and his personal network as key factors in his success. This milestone adds a new chapter to the history of the sport and sets a benchmark for future talents in Formula 1®.