Mexico City, November 2, 2026: Formula 1 witnessed a historic moment as Mercedes driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli became the youngest-ever Formula 1 World Drivers’ Champion at just 20 years and 68 days old. The Italian secured the 2026 championship after finishing third in a dramatic Mexico City Grand Prix on Sunday, while Red Bull’s Max Verstappen claimed a spectacular race victory.
Antonelli’s achievement breaks the long-standing record held by Sebastian Vettel, who became Formula 1’s youngest world champion at 23 years and 134 days in 2010. The young Mercedes star has now made history in only his second season in the sport.
Antonelli Makes Formula 1 History
Heading into the Mexico City Grand Prix, Antonelli needed only a ninth-place finish to guarantee the championship, regardless of the results of his closest rivals, Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes teammate George Russell.
Starting fourth on the grid, Antonelli delivered a composed performance under pressure and crossed the finish line in third place. The result gave him an unassailable championship lead and confirmed his maiden world title.
Emotions ran high inside the Mercedes garage as Antonelli celebrated the achievement with his team and family. The Italian was visibly emotional over the team radio after receiving confirmation that he had become world champion.
His triumph also ended Italy’s 73-year wait for a Formula 1 Drivers’ Championship. The country’s previous world champion was Alberto Ascari, who secured his second title in 1953.
Max Verstappen Wins Dramatic Mexico City Grand Prix
While Antonelli celebrated his championship, Max Verstappen delivered an impressive performance to take victory for Red Bull.
Starting fifth, the Dutchman made an excellent start and quickly moved into contention for the lead. He benefited from an early battle between Ferrari teammates Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc before taking control of the race.
The 71-lap contest featured plenty of drama, including a red-flag stoppage following a heavy crash involving Valtteri Bottas and a late Safety Car after Arvid Lindblad crashed out.
Despite sustained pressure from Hamilton during the closing stages, Verstappen maintained his advantage and secured his third victory of the 2026 season.
Hamilton finished second, just 0.799 seconds behind Verstappen, while Antonelli completed the podium in third.
Mexico City GP 2026: Top 10 Race Results
| Position | Driver | Team |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Max Verstappen | Red Bull |
| 2 | Lewis Hamilton | Ferrari |
| 3 | Kimi Antonelli | Mercedes |
| 4 | Charles Leclerc | Ferrari |
| 5 | Lando Norris | McLaren |
| 6 | George Russell | Mercedes |
| 7 | Oscar Piastri | McLaren |
| 8 | Franco Colapinto | Alpine |
| 9 | Liam Lawson | Racing Bulls |
| 10 | Pierre Gasly | Alpine |
A New Era Begins for Mercedes
Antonelli’s championship victory marks a significant milestone for Mercedes, which has successfully developed another world champion following its successful partnership with Lewis Hamilton.
Hamilton, who moved to Ferrari after leaving Mercedes, also enjoyed a strong afternoon by finishing second in Mexico City.
Meanwhile, Verstappen’s victory has strengthened his position in the battle for second place in the Drivers’ Championship. With the championship title already decided, attention will now shift towards the remaining races and the fight for the Constructors’ Championship.
Mercedes currently leads Ferrari in the team standings, with the next opportunity to strengthen its position coming at the Brazilian Grand Prix.
What Happens Next in Formula 1?
The Formula 1 championship moves to Brazil for the São Paulo Grand Prix on November 8, 2026. Although Antonelli has already secured the Drivers’ Championship, several battles remain to be decided before the season concludes.
For Antonelli, the Mexico City weekend will be remembered as the moment he entered Formula 1 history. At just 20, he has achieved what every young racing driver dreams of — becoming a Formula 1 world champion.
With Verstappen continuing to challenge at the front and a new generation of drivers emerging, the future of Formula 1 promises plenty of excitement.
Kimi Antonelli is the new king of Formula 1, and his historic championship victory could mark the beginning of a remarkable career.
