Red Bull Voices Regret Regarding Comments Linked to Online Abuse Targeting Mercedes Star Kimi Antonelli
The Red Bull Formula 1 team has issued a statement expressing its deep remorse for post-race remarks that preceded a torrent of social media vitriol, including vile threats, directed at Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli.
Antonelli reportedly changed his Instagram profile to a blank image on Monday, a reaction to the hurtful messages that appeared on his accounts. Mercedes confirmed that a number of these messages included direct threats against the youngster's life.
The controversy stems from team radio during the final laps of the Qatar Grand Prix. Max Verstappen's race engineer suggested over the air that it "appeared as if" Antonelli had "just pulled over" to allow McLaren's Lando Norris through.
This occurrence proved crucial for the title fight, as Norris's pass earned him extra points. This increased the Briton's points advantage over Verstappen to a dozen points heading into the season finale in Abu Dhabi.
In its official communication, Red Bull clarified: "Comments made suggesting that Mercedes driver had deliberately allowed Lando Norris to overtake are clearly incorrect. Replay footage shows Antonelli momentarily losing control of his car, thus allowing Norris to pass him. We deeply regret that this has resulted in Kimi being subjected to online abuse."
The team's announcement did not include a direct apology for the original claim. However, sources indicate that Lambiase later said sorry to Toto Wolff after reviewing video evidence of the on-track moment.
"This is complete and utter rubbish. That blows my mind even to hear that," stated Wolff. "We are battling for P2 in the team standings... How foolish can you be to even suggest something like this?"
Wolff added that he had spoken with Lambiase, who stated he had not seen the actual incident when he made the comment. The team noted a "massive surge" in negative traffic targeting Antonelli following the race.
For his part, Antonelli described the racing incident as a error. He said he was pushing hard to catch Carlos Sainz and experienced a "massive moment" that caused him to go off track and surrender fourth place.
"It was really hard with the dirty air and the tyres were overheating," the driver stated. "A shame to lose the place because it would have been additional points."
Main Takeaways from the Situation
- Red Bull has expressed regret for comments made by a staff member.
- Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli received death threats in the aftermath of those comments.
- The controversial remark centered on an overtaking move that impacted the championship standings.
- Video replays show Antonelli lost control, debunking the suggestion of team orders.
- The engineer involved has apologised to Mercedes team leadership.
