From BBC Sport · · 2m
Kimi Antonelli wins F1 title: Bologna celebrates one of its own
The 20-year-old from Bologna becomes Italy's first Formula 1 world champion in 73 years, uniting a nation divided by Ferrari loyalty.
In brief
The 20-year-old from Bologna becomes Italy's first Formula 1 world champion in 73 years, uniting a nation divided by Ferrari loyalty. Kimi Antonelli, 20, became Formula 1's youngest world champion, ending Italy's 73-year wait for a drivers' champion and making him a hero in his native Bologna. Originally reported by…
A six-year-old who knew the track
Manuel Fantini, owner of Galliano Park racetrack near Forli, Bologna, recalls first seeing Kimi Antonelli at age six. The kart had to be adapted so he could reach the pedals.
“When I first saw him, I said: 'Mamma mia, chi diavolo è questo?'”
Better, not just faster
Fantini says Antonelli's approach was different from other young drivers. His priority was improvement over speed, a mindset Fantini believes is key to becoming a champion.
“His priority was being better - not being faster. That is the key in motorsport to be a champion.”
Italy's first champion in 73 years
Kimi Antonelli, 20, becomes Formula 1's youngest world champion. It has been 73 years since Italy had a Formula 1 drivers' champion.
Victory at Monza from 19th place
Antonelli won the Italian Grand Prix from 19th on the grid, demonstrating the mastery and bravery many predict will mean he dominates the sport for years to come.
Tagliatelle al ragu from the trophy
After victory at Monza, Antonelli ate pasta out of his winner's trophy. The dish, tagliatelle al ragu, was a nod to his Bolognese roots and the region's famous cuisine.
One of us, not a celebrity
At Trattoria dal Biassanot in Bologna, owner Luca Bugamelli says Antonelli is treated as one of the community, not as a famous driver. The restaurant has no photos of his visits on its walls.
“Kimi is just one of us. We've known Kimi since he was a child.”
Ferrari fans split at Monza
Antonelli drives for Mercedes, not Ferrari, creating a dilemma for Italian fans. At Monza, the crowd was split between Ferrari and Antonelli for the first time in history.
“I had some friends that went to Monza - and probably for the first time in the history, the crowd is split for Ferrari and Kimi.”
A boy from Bologna's streets
Antonelli has become famous beyond motorsport fans through his social media presence. A 20-year-old student from Bologna says his achievement makes her proud to be from the city.
“It makes me feel proud to be from here. It's inspiring.”
From Bologna to world champion
Antonelli clinched the F1 world title in Mexico, completing his journey from a boy in Bologna to a man who became a champion at Monza, then sealed the fairytale.
The headline
Kimi Antonelli, 20, became Formula 1's youngest world champion, ending Italy's 73-year wait for a drivers' champion and making him a hero in his native Bologna.
