News Summary
- Andrea Kimi Antonelli plans to frame a photograph of himself alongside Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen following his historic Formula 1 championship victory in Mexico.
- The 20-year-old praised the respect shown by the two multiple world champions, describing the moment as one he will never forget.
- Antonelli shared the podium with Verstappen and Hamilton after finishing third, securing the 2026 Drivers’ Championship and becoming the youngest champion in F1 history.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli has revealed that he intends to frame a photograph of himself alongside Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen on the Mexican Grand Prix podium, describing the moment as one of the most meaningful of his career. The Mercedes driver secured his first Formula 1 world championship on Sunday (November 1), becoming the youngest champion in history at just 20 years old.
Speaking after the race, Antonelli explained that sharing such an important moment with two drivers who have shaped modern Formula 1 made the occasion even more special.
Antonelli cherishes recognition from Hamilton and Verstappen
“I will definitely frame the picture and put it in my house because it’s just an incredible moment,” Antonelli said.
“And as well, to see so much respect from two incredible drivers who have done the history of the sport is truly special, and a moment that will live and will always be remembered.”
The Italian finished third in Mexico, behind race winner Verstappen and Hamilton, who took second for Ferrari.
Both drivers congratulated Antonelli after the race, recognising the significance of his achievement.
Verstappen described Antonelli’s title as extraordinary and said he was proud of the new champion.
Hamilton, meanwhile, praised his former Mercedes team and said he was grateful to witness Antonelli become the youngest world champion in Formula 1 history.
The occasion also carried particular significance because Antonelli replaced Hamilton at Mercedes in 2025, beginning the journey that led to his first championship.
“So definitely I will frame the picture and put it on the wall of my house so I can see it very well whenever I go in,” Antonelli added.
Mexico podium becomes symbol of Antonelli’s historic achievement
Antonelli secured the championship at 20 years, 2 months and 7 days, breaking Sebastian Vettel’s record from 2010.
His achievement also ended Italy’s 73-year wait for a Formula 1 world champion, dating back to Alberto Ascari’s second title in 1953.
The Mercedes driver had struggled to contain his emotions after crossing the finish line, breaking down in tears over the team radio.
He later revealed that tears had made it difficult to see the circuit during the final lap.
For Antonelli, the photograph alongside Verstappen and Hamilton will serve as a permanent reminder not only of his first world championship, but also of the recognition he received from two of the sport’s most successful drivers.
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