A world champion but 'one of us' - a city's pride in Antonelli — SkimNews
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- Kimi Antonelli became Formula 1's youngest world champion at 20, ending Italy's 73-year wait for a drivers' champion and clinching the title in Mexico.
- Kimi Antonelli won the Italian Grand Prix from 19th on the grid, then ate tagliatelle al ragu from his winner's trophy in a nod to his Bolognese roots.
- Manuel Fantini recalled that Antonelli began karting at six at Galliano Park, where his kart had to be adapted because he could not reach the pedals; he finished faster than rivals in a slower kart.
- Luca Bugamelli said Antonelli remains “one of us” at Trattoria dal Biassanot, where he regularly eats with his parents and sister, although the restaurant displays no photos of his visits.
- Ferrari and Antonelli supporters divided the Monza crowd, with resident Paolo saying it was probably the first such split in the circuit's history.
- Kimi Antonelli attracted non-aficionados largely through his social media presence, extending his Formula 1 audience beyond Italy's established racing fan base.
Why it matters: Mercedes gains something rare in Italy: a split Monza crowd supporting Antonelli over Ferrari, a division resident Paolo said was probably unprecedented. Antonelli also ended a 73-year wait for an Italian F1 champion, giving Bologna and the country a shared source of pride while his everyday life in the city remains strikingly ordinary.
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