The Red Bull team Voices Regret Over Remarks Following Online Abuse Against Driver Kimi Antonelli
The Red Bull racing outfit has released a comment stating its deep remorse for comments made that preceded a torrent of online abuse, including vile threats, directed at young talent Kimi Antonelli.
Antonelli was said to have changed his social media picture to a blank image on Monday, a reaction to the abusive comments that appeared on his accounts. Mercedes stated that a number of these messages constituted threats against the driver's life.
The situation originated with radio communications during the closing stages of the recent race. Max Verstappen's race engineer suggested over the air that it "appeared as if" Antonelli had "just pulled over" to allow rival driver Lando Norris to pass.
This incident proved significant for the championship battle, as Norris's pass secured two additional points. This increased the Briton's championship lead over Verstappen to 12 points heading into the season finale in Abu Dhabi.
In its statement, Red Bull clarified: "Comments made implying that Kimi Antonelli had deliberately allowed Lando Norris to overtake are factually wrong. Replay footage demonstrates Antonelli momentarily losing control of his car, thereby allowing Norris to pass him. We sincerely regret that this has led to Kimi being subjected to online abuse."
The team's announcement did not include a formal apology for the initial accusation. However, sources indicate that Lambiase later apologised to Mercedes team principal after being shown video evidence of the on-track moment.
"This is complete and utter rubbish. That blows my mind even to hear that," said Wolff. "We are fighting for P2 in the constructors' championship... How foolish can you be to even say something like this?"
Wolff explained that he had cleared the air with Lambiase, who claimed he did not witness the moment when he spoke over the radio. Mercedes reported a "1,100% increase" in abusive messages targeting Antonelli after the race.
For his part, Antonelli explained the racing incident as a error. He commented he was driving aggressively to close on Carlos Sainz and experienced a "big snap" that led him to run wide and surrender fourth place.
"It was really hard with the dirty air and the high tyre temperatures," the driver stated. "It's disappointing to lose the place because it would have been two more points."
Main Takeaways from the Incident
- Red Bull has voiced remorse for radio remarks made by a team member.
- Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli received death threats in the aftermath of those comments.
- The disputed comment involved an overtaking move that affected the title battle.
- Video replays confirm Antonelli lost control, debunking the implication of team orders.
- The individual in question has apologised to Mercedes team leadership.
