Lando Norris praises Kimi Antonelli after remarkable championship season

Outgoing Formula 1 world champion Lando Norris believes Kimi Antonelli deserves far more credit for his remarkable 2026 campaign, after the Mercedes driver secured his maiden title at the Mexico City Grand Prix.

Norris praised the 20-year-old Italian for the way he dominated the championship battle, particularly against experienced team-mate George Russell and seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton. He also rejected suggestions that Antonelli had faced little competition.

Speaking ahead of the race, Norris said: “He's done an insane job.” The Briton pointed out that Antonelli had beaten Russell, who has considerably more Formula 1 experience, while also taking the fight to Hamilton.

Norris added that claims Antonelli lacked serious competition overlooked how convincingly he had beaten his rivals. He also congratulated the young Italian after the race, saying he was happy to see him take over the number one on the champion's car.