Antonelli reveals 'incredible' messages after becoming champion

Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli arrives at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix as the newly crowned 2026 Formula 1 World Champion, securing the title at just 20 years old during the Mexico City Grand Prix to become the sport's youngest-ever champion. Speaking on Thursday in Brazil, Antonelli admitted that the overwhelming support and numerous congratulatory messages have felt surreal. Among the countless tributes, the young Italian revealed that a deeply meaningful video message from four-time World Champion Sebastian Vettel—whose previous record he broke—stood out alongside warm wishes from fellow drivers like Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc, and Lando Norris. He also shared that he spent time recharging with the Senna family ahead of the race weekend. Looking ahead to the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, Mercedes remains in contention for the constructors' championship. Antonelli expressed his excitement to race at a track he loves, stating that his primary goal is to secure a victory while enjoying the remaining races of the season.