Vettel urges Antonelli to enjoy F1 title without changing how he sees others

After Kimi Antonelli clinched the Formula 1 title at the Mexico City Grand Prix, Sebastian Vettel urged him to enjoy the achievement without letting it change how he sees other people. In a personal video message, Vettel said success may alter how others view Antonelli, but need not alter how Antonelli views them.

At 20 years and 68 days old, Antonelli became the youngest champion in F1 history, breaking the record Vettel set in 2010. Vettel was 23 years, four months and 11 days old when he won his first championship.

Vettel said he had kept in regular contact with Antonelli throughout the season, exchanging supportive messages before and after grands prix.

Vettel also recalled the rush of his own first title. He said he was overwhelmed at the finish, found it impossible to reflect and did not sleep properly for days. Later, as he held the trophy and read the names of the other champions, he said he felt proud and satisfied. For Vettel, the best part was not crossing the line that decided the title, but all the races that led up to it.