The Red Bull team Voices Regret Over Remarks Linked to Online Abuse Targeting Driver Kimi Antonelli
The Red Bull Formula 1 team has released a comment stating its deep remorse for post-race remarks that were followed by a torrent of online abuse, including vile threats, directed at young talent Kimi Antonelli.
Antonelli reportedly switched his Instagram profile to a solid black image on Monday, a response to the hurtful messages that appeared on his accounts. His team stated that a number of these messages constituted threats against the driver's life.
The controversy originated with radio communications during the final laps of the recent race. Max Verstappen's race engineer remarked over the air that it "appeared as if" Antonelli had "deliberately moved aside" to allow rival driver Lando Norris to pass.
This occurrence proved crucial for the title fight, as Norris's pass secured two additional points. This increased the Briton's championship lead over Verstappen to a dozen points heading into the season finale in Abu Dhabi.
In its statement, Red Bull clarified: "Comments made suggesting that Mercedes driver had deliberately allowed Lando Norris past are clearly incorrect. Video evidence shows Antonelli briefly losing control of his car, thereby allowing Norris to pass him. We deeply regret that this has resulted in Kimi receiving such abuse."
The team's announcement stopped short of a formal apology for the initial accusation. However, sources indicate that Lambiase later said sorry to Toto Wolff after reviewing footage of the incident.
"This is total, utter nonsense. That blows my mind even to hear that," said Wolff. "We are battling for P2 in the team standings... How foolish can you be to even suggest something like this?"
Wolff added that he had cleared the air with Lambiase, who claimed he did not witness the moment when he spoke over the radio. Mercedes reported a "1,100% increase" in abusive messages targeting Antonelli after the race.
For his part, Antonelli described the moment as a error. He commented he was pushing hard to catch the Williams ahead and had a "massive moment" that led him to run wide and lose the position.
"It was really hard with the dirty air and the tyres were overheating," Antonelli remarked. "It's disappointing to lose the place because it would have been additional points."
Main Takeaways from the Situation
- Red Bull has voiced remorse for radio remarks made by a staff member.
- Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli received severe online abuse in the aftermath of those comments.
- The disputed comment centered on an on-track pass that affected the championship standings.
- Video replays confirm Antonelli lost control, debunking the implication of deliberate action.
- The individual in question has apologised to Mercedes management.