The Mercedes driver secured his maiden Drivers’ Championship after finishing third at the Mexico City Grand Prix on Sunday, November 1, with four races remaining in the season. At 20 years and 68 days old, Antonelli surpassed Vettel’s record, set in 2010 when the German won his first title at 23 years and 134 days.
Antonelli entered the race knowing that a ninth-place finish would be enough to secure the championship, regardless of how his closest rivals, Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes teammate George Russell, performed.
Red Bull’s Max Verstappen won the race, finishing ahead of Hamilton, while Antonelli claimed third place to seal the title.
His triumph also ended Italy’s 73-year wait for a Formula 1 world champion, making him the first Italian to win the Drivers’ Championship since Alberto Ascari in 1953.
Antonelli, who is in only his second season in Formula 1, celebrated the historic achievement with his family and the Mercedes team.
“We did it. And, you know, without them, I wouldn’t be here. Without Mercedes, without my family,” he said after the race.
Verstappen was among the first to congratulate the young champion, describing the occasion as an emotional moment for Antonelli and his family.
“It’s amazing to see the whole team, of course, celebrating with him. His family is here as well, so I’m sure this is a very emotional day for him, and I’m very proud of him,” Verstappen said.
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