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F1·November 4, 2026 01:06 AM ET

Wolff calls Antonelli role model, targets 'entitled' rivals

Mercedes driver secured the crown at 20 in Mexico City.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 1h1 min read
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What happened: Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff said newly crowned world champion Kimi Antonelli represents a shift away from a selfish, win-at-all-costs culture in Formula 1. Wolff stated that Antonelli should serve as a role model for upcoming drivers and criticized rival competitors for feeling entitled.

Why it matters: The comments follow a season of intense paddock scrutiny, coming weeks after Toto Wolff dismissed claims Mercedes favored Antonelli over George Russell. Antonelli sealed the 2026 drivers' title at 20 years and 68 days old, making him the youngest champion in Formula 1 history.

By the numbers: Antonelli sealed the championship with a P3 finish in Mexico City behind Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton. The podium marked his tenth top-three finish of 2026, alongside nine race victories.

What to watch: The grid heads next to Interlagos for the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, the penultimate stop on the 2026 calendar.

Sources

  • @SkySportsF1 

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