The Red Bull team Expresses Remorse Over Comments Linked to Death Threats Targeting Driver Kimi Antonelli
The Red Bull Formula 1 team has released a comment stating its sincere regret for post-race remarks that were followed by widespread social media vitriol, including vile threats, directed at young talent Kimi Antonelli.
Antonelli reportedly changed his social media picture to a solid black image on Monday, a reaction to the hurtful messages that appeared on his accounts. Mercedes confirmed that several of these communications constituted threats against the driver's life.
The situation stems from radio communications during the closing stages of the Qatar Grand Prix. Max Verstappen's race engineer remarked over the air that it "appeared as if" Antonelli had "just pulled over" to let rival driver Lando Norris through.
This incident proved crucial for the title fight, as the overtake earned him two additional points. This extended the McLaren driver's championship lead over Verstappen to 12 points heading into the final race in Abu Dhabi.
In its official communication, Red Bull clarified: "Comments made suggesting that Kimi Antonelli had intentionally let Lando Norris to overtake are clearly incorrect. Replay footage demonstrates Antonelli briefly losing control of his car, thus allowing Norris to get by. We sincerely regret that this has resulted in Kimi being subjected to such abuse."
The team's announcement stopped short of a formal apology for the original claim. However, sources indicate that Lambiase later said sorry to Toto Wolff after being shown 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 fighting for second place in the team standings... How brainless can you be to even say something like this?"
Wolff added that he had spoken with Lambiase, who stated he did not witness the moment when he spoke over the radio. Mercedes reported a "massive surge" in abusive messages targeting Antonelli following the Grand Prix.
For his part, Antonelli explained the racing incident as a error. He commented he was pushing hard to catch the Williams ahead and experienced a "big snap" that caused him to go off track and surrender fourth place.
"It was really hard with the turbulence and the tyres were overheating," the driver stated. "A shame to lose the place because it would have been additional points."
Key Points from the Situation
- Red Bull has expressed regret for radio remarks made by a team member.
- Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli received death threats in the aftermath of those comments.
- The controversial remark centered on an on-track pass that affected the championship standings.
- Video evidence confirm Antonelli made a mistake, debunking the implication of deliberate action.
- The individual in question has apologised to Mercedes management.
