Kimi Antonelli makes F1 history as youngest-ever world champion

Kimi Antonelli has made Formula 1 (F1) history after becoming the youngest-ever Drivers' World Champion at the 2026 Mexico City Grand Prix, securing the title with a third-place finish.

The 20-year-old Mercedes driver achieved the historic milestone behind race winner Max Verstappen of Red Bull and Lewis Hamilton of Ferrari, who finished second.

Antonelli's championship triumph ends Italy's 73-year wait for a Formula 1 world title, making him the country's first champion since Alberto Ascari in 1953.

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His remarkable achievement also breaks Sebastian Vettel's record as the youngest world champion in the sport's history.

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Antonelli's journey to the top has been remarkable. Having joined Mercedes' junior development program in 2019, the Italian quickly established himself as one of motorsport's brightest prospects.

He made an accelerated progression through the junior categories, moving directly into Formula 2 in 2024 without competing in Formula 3. His impressive development earned him a Mercedes race seat in 2025, replacing Hamilton following the seven-time champion's departure for Ferrari.

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In just his second Formula 1 season, Antonelli has now reached the pinnacle of the sport, rewarding Mercedes' long-term investment in his talent.

His historic championship victory marks a significant moment for Italian motorsport and establishes a new benchmark for young drivers in Formula 1.