Kimi Antonelli becomes youngest Formula 1 champion ever at 20 years old

Kimi Antonelli clinched the Formula 1 world championship Sunday, becoming the youngest driver in the sport’s history to win the title at just 20.

The Italian prodigy secured the title at the Mexican Grand Prix with four races remaining on the 2026 calendar, capping a sensational season in just his second year in F1.

He finished third and scored 15 points, enough to vanquish his remaining rivals from mathematical contention for the most coveted trophy in motor racing.

“We did it! Thank you so much,” an emotional Antonelli said on the team radio after taking the checkered flag.

“I’m very grateful for this moment,” he said after jumping out of the car. “It’s one that will live forever. I’m speechless. I’m trying to process what has just happened. … Looking forward to some more battles in the future.”

Antonelli broke the record set by Sebastian Vettel, who was 23 when he won the championship in a title-deciding thriller in 2010. Antonelli also became Italy’s first F1 world champion since Alberto Ascari in 1953, vaulting him to superstardom at home.

Antonelli has won nine out of 19 races so far this season, consistently outperforming his veteran Mercedes teammate and chief rival…

Original source: https://www.nbcnews.com/sports