Marco Antonelli has spoken about his son Kimi’s first World Championship, describing the achievement as significant and reflecting on the difficult path that led to it. Kimi sealed the title at the Mexico City Grand Prix, where he finished third behind Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, earning enough points to take the championship.
After the race, the 20-year-old celebrated with his family. Marco, who has supported him throughout his motorsport career, told Sky Sports F1 that Kimi had grown stronger over time. He also described his relationship with his son and daughter as special, and said he was proud to have supported Kimi through both difficult and happy moments.
Kimi started the race fourth and moved ahead of Charles Leclerc to claim third place. His title made him Italy’s first World Champion in 73 years.
Speaking to F1 TV, Marco said he had cried when he told his son he was champion. He said Kimi’s success had come step by step, while noting that it had never been possible to know for certain that he would one day win the title.
Marco also reflected on the pressure Kimi faced after joining a car previously driven by a seven-time World Champion. He praised his son for recovering from a difficult period, learning from the experience and using it to improve.
Sources: Formula 1.