Antonelli becomes youngest F1 champion as Verstappen wins in Mexico

Antonelli becomes youngest F1 champion as Verstappen wins in Mexico

Posted on 11/1/2026, 8:15 PM AST | Updated on 11/1/2026, 8:16 PM AST

MEXICO CITY — Kimi Antonelli secured his first Formula 1 world title by finishing third in the Mexican Grand Prix. At 20, the Italian becomes the youngest world champion in the sport’s history, breaking Sebastian Vettel’s record of winning his first title at 23 in 2010.

Max Verstappen won ahead of Lewis Hamilton, claiming his third victory of the season and sixth in Mexico. The result moves the Dutchman into second place in the championship.

Verstappen took the lead during Charles Leclerc’s pit stop, when the Ferrari driver served a five-second penalty for overtaking Hamilton off the track.

A heavy crash involving Valtteri Bottas caused a red flag and a 40-minute interruption. Bottas was able to climb out unaided. After the restart, Verstappen resisted Hamilton’s pressure to secure victory, despite a further safety car period following a crash involving Arvid Lindblad.