Antonelli has a special place in mind for iconic Hamilton-Verstappen photo

Antonelli's historic achievement was celebrated in spectacular fashion on the podium in Mexico City, where Hamilton and Verstappen paid tribute to the newly crowned world champion by lifting him onto their shoulders.

The gesture brought together three drivers with vastly different levels of experience but a shared place in Formula 1 history. Hamilton's seven world championships and Verstappen's four, combined with Antonelli's maiden crown, made the photograph particularly meaningful for the 20-year-old.

Speaking to the media after the celebrations, the Mercedes driver admitted that receiving such recognition from two of the sport's most successful figures was something he would treasure for the rest of his life.

Toto Wolff has hit back at those who questioned his decision to promote Kimi Antonelli to Formula 1 following the Italian's historic world championship triumph in Mexico. The 20-year-old became the youngest champion in the sport's history, rewarding Wolff's faith in his abilities. The Mercedes team principal praised Antonelli's composure throughout the decisive weekend, highlighting his ability to remain calm under immense pressure.

The Austrian also reflected on Antonelli's journey, having first encountered him as an 11-year-old karting driver. Despite his promising junior career, the decision to replace Lewis Hamilton with the youngster attracted considerable criticism, particularly following his difficult Formula 2 campaign. Wolff even revealed that Mercedes lost two sponsors because of concerns over Antonelli's readiness for Formula 1.

However, Wolff insisted that Mercedes never lost faith in Antonelli's potential, even during the difficult moments of his rookie season. He expressed his pride in the team's continued support for the Italian, explaining that promoting him was his immediate instinct following Hamilton's departure. The Mercedes boss described the decision as a calculated risk rather than a gamble.