Antonelli celebrates F1 title while still trying to take it in

“We’ve done it! We pulled it off!” Kimi Antonelli said after clinching the Formula 1 world title at the Mexico City Grand Prix. He thanked his supporters, Mercedes and his family, and said the moment would stay with him forever.

Antonelli started fourth and finished third behind Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton — enough to secure the championship. His emotions were clear over the team radio. By the interviews immediately after the race, he had calmed somewhat, but said he was still speechless and trying to take in what had happened.

Interviewer Nico Rosberg noted that Antonelli shared the podium with Verstappen and Hamilton, both multi-time world champions, then asked whether having to beat the pair made the title more special. Antonelli said it did, called the season incredible and said he looked forward to more battles with them.

Antonelli also said he had felt more nervous during the race weekend. “Now we can enjoy the rest of the season,” he said.