In the Italian town where Kimi Antonelli grew up, celebrations started early. By Monday, even before the new Formula One World Champion could return home to join them, his hometown of Casalecchio was already celebrating.
More than 500 people gathered at a theater to watch Antonelli secure his title at the Mexico Grand Prix, as reported by Mayor Matteo Ruggeri to ANSA. When his racing schedule permits, a grand welcome is ready for him.
Antonelli made history as the youngest Formula One Champion and the first Italian to win the title since Alberto Ascari in 1953. He achieved this feat with a vital third-place finish in the Mexico City Grand Prix, which was sufficient for him to clinch the championship despite Max Verstappen winning the race.
Pride spread beyond Casalecchio, which is close to Bologna. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed pride in the 20-year-old’s achievement. Jannik Sinner, a notable figure in Italian tennis, was among those who shared their congratulations online.
Although Ferrari is often associated with Italian F1 racing, Antonelli drives for Mercedes. He shared the podium with Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, the latter being the seven-time champion Antonelli succeeded at Mercedes.
Bologna is also preparing to honor Antonelli. Mayor Matteo Lepore announced that Antonelli will receive Bologna’s Nettuno d’Oro civic award. He commended Antonelli’s skill and perseverance, which brought the world championship back to Italy after 73 years.
In Casalecchio, the triumph feels personal. Mayor Ruggeri highlighted the community’s memories of the Antonelli family’s auto garage and seeing young Kimi on his way to school or playing cards with his grandfather.
“Kimi is one of us,” Ruggeri said.
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