Mercedes prodigy becomes the youngest F1 champion in history

Kimi Antonelli has written his name in the record books, officially crowned the youngest Formula 1 World Champion in history.

At just 20 years of age and in just his second season in Formula 1, the Mercedes prodigy turned potential into reality, claiming nine Grand Prix wins to storm to the title with four races remaining on the 2026 season.

The Italian solidified his position atop the Drivers' Championship overnight, claiming a third place finish at the Mexican Grand Prix behind Red Bull's Max Verstappen, and the man he replaced at Mercedes, Lewis Hamilton.

Claiming 15 points from his podium finish, Antonelli's lead of 119 points to Verstappen is now insurmountable.

“We did it,” Antonelli said after the race.

“You know, without them, I wouldn’t be here – without Mercedes, without my family. So I’m very grateful for this moment, and it’s one that will live forever. I’m speechless. I’m trying to process what has just happened.

“It’s been an incredible season, and to share this podium with Max and Lewis is truly incredible. And yeah, looking forward to some more battles in the future.

“This weekend I did feel a bit more tense, but I’m just so happy, and happy that we got it done, and now we can enjoy the rest of the season.”

At 20 years and 68 days, Antonelli becomes the youngest Drivers' Champion by over three years, eclipsing F1 legend Sebastian Vettel's title won at 23 years and 134 days in 2010.

He becomes the first Italian to be crowned champion in 73 years.

The season is far from over, with just 40 points separating Verstappen in second and McLaren's Lando Norris in sixth.

As for the Constructors' Championship, Mercedes holds a strong lead over Ferrari, while Red Bull and McLaren will battle it out to round out the top three.

Attention turns to the infamous Brazil GP this coming weekend.