Messi congratulates Mercedes' Antonelli after Miami GP win

Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli secured his third consecutive win of the 2026 Formula 1 season at the Miami Grand Prix, a victory made memorable by a post-race congratulations from football icon Lionel Messi. The 19-year-old Italian converted pole position into a dominant win, extending his championship lead in a physically demanding race.

Why it matters:

Antonelli's flawless start to his F1 career signals the arrival of a major new talent, while the crossover moment with Messi underscores the sport's growing global appeal. His ability to handle immense pressure and deliver results from the front positions suggests Mercedes has found a potential long-term leader as they build for the future.

The details:

• Antonelli described the Miami race as intensely tough due to the heat and humidity, admitting he was willing it to end during the final stint.
• After the race, a video shared by Mercedes showed Antonelli being met with cheers in the hospitality unit, where he was approached by guest Lionel Messi.
• Messi, at the event with his family, personally congratulated the young driver on his victory, creating a viral social media moment praised by fans for Antonelli's humility.
• The win was a masterclass in composure, with Antonelli managing the race from the front despite the challenging conditions.

By the numbers:

• 3: Pole positions converted into wins for Antonelli in his first four Grands Prix, a unique achievement for a rookie.
• 20: His points lead in the Drivers' Championship over teammate George Russell after just four rounds.
• 4: Races completed in the 2026 season, with Antonelli winning the last three consecutively.

What's next:

The F1 circus heads to the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve for the Canadian Grand Prix on May 22-24, where Antonelli will aim to continue his remarkable streak. The young star remains grounded, stating after the race, "This is just the beginning. The road is still long. I'm going to enjoy this one then get back to work," acknowledging the team effort behind his success.