Antonelli hails 'day I will remember forever' after becoming F1's youngest champion

Kimi Antonelli became Formula 1's youngest world champion at 20 years and 68 days, sealing the title with third place in a chaotic Mexico City Grand Prix. He needed only ninth to clinch the crown with four rounds remaining, delivering Italy's first drivers' title since 1953.

Why it matters:

Antonelli's rise completes a remarkable turnaround from a difficult rookie season and validates Mercedes' long-term investment. He joined the Silver Arrows at 12 and was long viewed as a generational talent. In just his second season, he has delivered a title that reshapes F1's next era.

The details:

• Max Verstappen won, with Lewis Hamilton second, leaving Antonelli on a podium with two drivers who share 11 world championships.
• Antonelli shouted "we did it" over the radio before celebrating with his parents and younger sister at Foro Sol.
• Mercedes boss Toto Wolff greeted him with a huge bear hug. Antonelli said: "I would not be here without Mercedes or my family. I am speechless."
• His father Marco praised Mercedes for believing in Kimi after a challenging first year.

What's next:

Antonelli said he will celebrate with family, friends and the team. For Mercedes, the result confirms its faith in a driver who once faced doubts over completing his debut season. The focus now shifts to how F1's newest champion handles defending a crown that arrived ahead of schedule.