Kimi Antonelli becomes the youngest Formula 1 world champion

On November 1, 2026, 20-year-old Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli secured the Formula 1 world championship at the Mexico Grand Prix, the 19th race of the season. At 20 years and 68 days old, the Italian driver became the youngest world champion in the history of the sport. His performance in Mexico officially ended the title defense of the previous champion, Lando Norris, with four races remaining in the calendar.

Reports regarding his finish position vary, as one source states he finished the race in third place, while another reports that he won the Grand Prix in Mexico City. Regardless of the specific result, his points tally, combined with his teammates' performances—George Russell finishing ninth and Lewis Hamilton sixth—clinched the championship. Antonelli, born in Bologna on August 25, 2006, is now the 36th different driver to win the title and the first Italian to achieve this feat since 1953, marking a historic milestone for Italy.