Red Bull Voices Remorse Regarding Remarks Linked to Online Abuse Targeting Driver Kimi Antonelli

The Red Bull Formula 1 team has released a comment stating its deep remorse for comments made that preceded widespread online abuse, including vile threats, directed at young talent Kimi Antonelli.

Antonelli reportedly changed his Instagram profile to a solid black image on Monday, a reaction to the hurtful messages that flooded his accounts. His team stated that a number of these messages included threats against the youngster's life.

The situation stems from radio communications during the closing stages of the recent race. Max Verstappen's race engineer suggested over the air that it "looked like" Antonelli had "just pulled over" to allow rival driver Lando Norris to pass.

This occurrence proved significant for the title fight, as Norris's pass secured two additional points. This increased the McLaren driver's points advantage over Verstappen to a dozen points heading into the season finale in Abu Dhabi.

In its official communication, Red Bull clarified: "Comments made suggesting that Kimi Antonelli had deliberately allowed Lando Norris to overtake are factually wrong. Replay footage demonstrates Antonelli briefly losing control of his car, thus enabling Norris to pass him. We sincerely regret that this has resulted in Kimi receiving online abuse."

The team's announcement did not include a formal apology for the initial accusation. However, sources indicate that Lambiase subsequently apologised to Mercedes team principal after reviewing video evidence of the on-track moment.

"This is complete and utter rubbish. 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 stated he did not witness the actual incident when he made the comment. Mercedes noted a "massive surge" in abusive messages targeting Antonelli after the race.

For his part, Antonelli explained the moment 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 turbulence and the tyres were overheating," the driver stated. "A shame to lose the place because it would have been two more points."

Key Points from the Incident

• Red Bull has expressed regret for comments made by a team member.
• Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli received severe online abuse in the aftermath of those comments.
• The disputed comment involved an overtaking move that impacted the championship standings.
• Video replays confirm Antonelli made a mistake, contradicting the implication of deliberate action.
• The individual in question has apologised to Mercedes management.