Newly crowned 2026 Formula 1 world champion Andrea Kimi Antonelli has revealed that he intends to frame a special photograph showing him on the shoulders of Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton following the Mexico City Grand Prix. The Mercedes driver described the moment as incredible, explaining how much it meant to receive such a display of respect from two drivers who have made history in Formula 1.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli becomes F1 world champion in Mexico
One photograph, 12 Formula 1 world titles. Andrea Kimi Antonelli secured a place on the podium at the Mexican Grand Prix after taking advantage of a mistake by Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc during the second restart.
The Monegasque locked his front-left tyre, leaving him struggling with severe vibrations. Andrea Kimi Antonelli capitalised on the situation, surprising Charles Leclerc under braking and completing the overtake that earned him a podium finish.
The incident was another important moment in a dramatic race for Ferrari, with the Mexico City Grand Prix race report detailing how the interruptions and restarts affected Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc.
Kimi Antonelli treasures special moment with Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen
The overtake gave Andrea Kimi Antonelli more than a podium finish. It also led to a memorable photograph of the newly crowned world champion being carried on the shoulders of Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton.
For the Italian driver, the image represents not only his achievement but also the respect shown by two of Formula 1’s most successful figures. Andrea Kimi Antonelli has already received recognition from established champions during his rise through the sport, with Stefano Domenicali previously highlighting the respect shown to the Mercedes youngster by Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen.
Reflecting on the photograph, Andrea Kimi Antonelli explained why it will occupy a prominent place in his home.
“I’ll definitely frame the photo and hang it in my house because it’s simply an incredible moment,” Andrea Kimi Antonelli said. “And seeing so much respect from two extraordinary drivers who have made history in this sport is really special. I’ll frame the photo and hang it somewhere I can see it clearly every time I walk into the house.”
Having secured the 2026 Formula 1 world championship, Andrea Kimi Antonelli now has a photograph that captures both his success and the recognition he received from Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen. It is a moment the Italian intends to keep in sight every time he returns home.
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