‘Just the beginning’ for Antonelli, F1’s prodigious, charismatic new king

What the report says

Kimi Antonelli, the 20-year-old Mercedes driver, has been celebrated across Formula One after clinching the 2026 world championship at the Mexico City Grand Prix, according to Al Jazeera’s report based on AFP and Reuters coverage. He finished third in the race behind Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, but the result was enough to secure the title and make him the youngest world champion in F1 history. Hamilton later lifted Antonelli during the post-race celebrations, underscoring the scale of the moment.

The article says Antonelli has quickly become one of the paddock’s most popular figures, combining strong results with a playful, upbeat personality. Mercedes engineer Peter Bonnington, who has worked with Schumacher and Hamilton, described him as a special talent and a character who keeps the team entertained. Team principal Toto Wolff said Antonelli had to grow through pressure, media attention and expectations after being promoted quickly into the sport.

Al Jazeera traces Antonelli’s rise from karting and junior categories to Formula One. He was recruited by Mercedes as a young teenager, moved through Formula Regional and Formula 2, and then stepped up to F1 when Hamilton left for Ferrari. The report frames his title as the start of a new era for both Antonelli and Mercedes, while also highlighting broader support from Italy, including from public figures and sports stars.