This is the advice Sebastian Vettel gives to Formula 1 world champion Kimi Antonelli

At the age of just 20 years and 68 days, Kimi Antonelli became the youngest Formula 1 world champion in the history of the sport on Sunday. The Mercedes driver thus replaces the previous record-holder, Sebastian Vettel, who was already 23 years old when he won his first world title with Red Bull Racing in 2010.

Sebastian Vettel, now retired from racing, addressed the new champion Kimi Antonelli in a video message, after Antonelli mathematically secured his title with a third-place finish in the Mexican Grand Prix following a dominant season.

Vettel on F1 World Champion Kimi Antonelli

Vettel congratulated his successor in the F1 history books under the heading ‘Youngest World Champion’: ‘Kimi, congratulations, World Champion, Campione del Mondo, wow – very few of us have managed that, and no one has done it at such a young age as you have.’ Antonelli clinched the title in only his second F1 season.

Vettel on Antonelli: “You’re curious, you listen, you learn quickly, you’re fearless; your driving style was very clean and controlled, yet always on the limit when it mattered. You’ve understood that you can only control what you can control. You have a unique driving style, and we enjoy watching you.”

Sebastian Vettel im September in Monza

Foto: XPB

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Vettel then recalls his own big day 16 years ago: his first world championship title. That was on 14 November 2010 in Abu Dhabi – and by no means as clear-cut or predictable as Antonelli’s victory this year. Vettel: “When I won my first title, it all seemed to happen the moment I crossed the finish line. I was overwhelmed, got out of the car, and the world around me carried on at full speed. It was like a rush; it was impossible to think about it. I didn’t sleep properly for days – so be prepared for that.”

Vettel’s advice to Antonelli

Vettel: “I remember the feeling when it finally dawned on me: I was holding the World Championship trophy in my hands and reading the names of all the other champions. I felt proud and content. I realised that the best part wasn’t crossing the finish line to clinch the title, but all the races that led up to it. It’s never just a single race that counts, but all the races we drive. Every race shapes us. And whatever happens in the coming weeks, I’m sure you’ll soon feel the urge to race again. Because there’s still a race to be won.”

Finally, Vettel offers Antonelli some advice: “Great successes may change the way people see you, but you don’t have to change the way you see people. And now go and enjoy it.” And in Italian, the former Ferrari driver adds: “A big hug!”