Kimi Antonelli makes history as youngest F1 champion

Kimi Antonelli became Formula One's youngest world champion at 20 years and 68 days old on Sunday when he finished third in the Mexico City Grand Prix behind race winner Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton.

The previous recordholder was Germany's Sebastian Vettel , who first became a world champion at age 23 in 2010.

Antonelli is also the first Italian champion since 1953.

"I'm speechless. I’m trying to process what has just happened," said Antonelli after finishing the race.

His parents and sister were there to embrace him when he stepped out of the car.

"It's been an incredible season, and to share this podium with Max ​and Lewis is truly incredible. And looking forward to some more battles in the future," the 20-year-old said.

Antonelli, who secured the title with four races remaining, said the final lap was complicated by the excitement of what he had achieved.

"I think I lost two seconds because I could not see ahead, I think I saw two Ferraris," he said. "It was very special, a lot of memories went through my mind at that moment, and I let it all out after achieving one of my biggest dreams."

本文の著作権はDeutsche Welleにあります。