Red Bull Voices Regret Regarding Comments Linked to Online Abuse Against Mercedes Star Kimi Antonelli
The Red Bull Formula 1 team has issued a statement stating its deep remorse for comments made that preceded widespread online abuse, including vile threats, directed at young talent Kimi Antonelli.
Antonelli reportedly switched his Instagram profile to a solid black image on Monday, a reaction to the abusive comments that flooded his accounts. His team confirmed that a number of these messages included direct threats against the driver's life.
The situation stems from radio communications during the closing stages of the Qatar Grand Prix. Red Bull engineer Gianpiero Lambiase suggested over the air that it "appeared as if" Antonelli had "just pulled over" to allow McLaren's Lando Norris to pass.
This incident proved crucial for the championship battle, as Norris's pass secured extra points. This extended the Briton's points advantage over Verstappen to a dozen points heading into the final race in Abu Dhabi.
In its statement, Red Bull clarified: "Comments voiced suggesting that Mercedes driver had deliberately allowed Lando Norris to overtake are factually wrong. Video evidence shows Antonelli momentarily losing control of his car, thereby allowing Norris to pass him. We sincerely regret that this has resulted in Kimi being subjected to such abuse."
The team's announcement did not include a direct apology for the initial accusation. However, sources indicate that Lambiase later said sorry to Mercedes team principal after reviewing footage of the on-track moment.
"This is total, utter nonsense. That astounds me even to hear that," stated Wolff. "We are fighting for P2 in the team standings... How foolish can you be to even say something like this?"
Wolff explained that he had cleared the air with Lambiase, who claimed he had not seen the actual incident when he spoke over the radio. Mercedes noted a "1,100% increase" in abusive messages targeting Antonelli following the race.
For his part, Antonelli described the racing incident as a error. He said he was driving aggressively to close on Carlos Sainz and had a "massive moment" that caused him to go off track and lose the position.
"It proved really hard with the dirty air and the tyres were overheating," the driver stated. "It's disappointing to lose the place because it would have been additional points."
Key Points from the Incident
- Red Bull has voiced remorse for comments made by a team member.
- Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli received severe online abuse in the wake of those comments.
- The controversial remark centered on an on-track pass that impacted the title battle.
- Video replays confirm Antonelli lost control, debunking the implication of deliberate action.
- The engineer involved has expressed regret to Mercedes management.