Kimi Antonelli secured the 2026 Formula 1 world championship by finishing third at the Mexican Grand Prix, prompting widespread praise from his fellow drivers. The title was confirmed during a race weekend in which celebrations for the new champion played out on screens beside the post-race media area.
Outgoing champion Lando Norris described Antonelli’s achievement as “unbelievable” and said the 20-year-old had exceeded expectations throughout the season. Norris praised his ability to understand and exploit the car, along with his consistency and limited number of mistakes.
“He’s made everyone else look silly,” Norris said, while also noting that Antonelli had beaten his highly rated Mercedes team-mate George Russell throughout the season. Norris added that Antonelli had won from the front, recovered from the back of the grid and delivered strong performances at every race.
Antonelli’s achievement is particularly notable because this is only his second season in Formula 1. He has won nine races and finished outside the podium places in just one grand prix he completed this year.
Franco Colapinto highlighted the symbolism of Antonelli standing on the podium between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen, describing it as an ideal setting for the new champion. Colapinto said Antonelli’s speed had been known already, but praised the consistency, race wins, podium finishes and ability to avoid mistakes that defined his title campaign.
Hamilton and Verstappen also congratulated Antonelli after the race. Verstappen said he was very proud of him, while Hamilton said he was grateful to witness what he called a remarkable crowning moment. The two drivers embraced Antonelli in parc ferme.
Gabriel Bortoleto identified consistency as the most impressive aspect of Antonelli’s season. He said the young driver had remained composed while competing against experienced champions and had suffered only a small number of poor races or incidents.
Carlos Sainz also called the title completely deserved. He said Antonelli had maximised the opportunity provided by a competitive car, dominating the first half of the season before controlling the second half in the manner expected of a world champion.
Alex Albon praised Antonelli’s apparent mental strength and relaxed approach, while arguing that his race pace had been the main factor separating him from the rest of the grid. Although the car had contributed to his success, Albon said Antonelli had been highly impressive throughout the year.
Sources: The Race.