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How Kimi Antonelli defied the odds and silenced his doubters to win first F1 title

Andrea Kimi Antonelli secured the 2026 Formula 1 drivers' title at the Mexico City Grand Prix, becoming the youngest champion in the sport's history. Despite entering the season as an underdog compared to his teammate George Russell, Antonelli overcame a difficult start to his campaign and a mid-season mechanical failure in Barcelona to claim the crown.

His momentum shifted during a dominant mid-season stretch that included consecutive victories in China, Japan, Miami, Canada, and Monaco. Toto Wolff defended the decision to promote the teenager to the Mercedes seat following his breakthrough performance in Shanghai.

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