Hamilton sends defiant message after Monaco podium: ‘Remind people who I am’

The podium finish, which was his second consecutive and third of the 2026 campaign, came after a largely chaotic race on the streets of Monte Carlo, where Hamilton himself was handed a penalty for a pit lane speed infringement. It also marked his record-equalling eighth podium around the Principality, a record also held by Ayrton Senna.

When asked in the post-race press conference how he felt about matching that record and his overall performance, Hamilton expressed gratitude before playfully pointing out the age gap between himself and his fellow podium finishers.

“Well, very grateful to be up here with these guys and these youngsters,” he said. “Someone just told me outside that both their ages combined, I’m older than both of them together.”

Race winner Kimi Antonelli quickly interjected: “Oh, really?” to which Hamilton replied: “Are you 21?” Antonelli clarified: “I’m 19.” Hamilton then reacted with surprise: “You’re 19? Jeez. But the thing is, I don’t feel it, which is kind of crazy.”

Antonelli responded: “You’re in great shape.” Reflecting further, Hamilton praised the moment and his continued presence in Formula 1, while also acknowledging the motivation he feels to reaffirm his status within the sport.

The seven-time champion also had a cheeky message for Antonelli, who again won the Monaco Grand Prix. While the drivers watched footage of the race from the cool-down room, there was plenty of debriefing and conversation, including Hamilton noting that his younger rival is winning a bit too much at the moment. “You’re winning too much, man. You’re going to overtake me,” he said with a laugh.

So far, Antonelli is on a five-race winning streak, matching a similar feat achieved by Hamilton. The Italian also secured his maiden career Grand Slam at the Monaco Grand Prix. Antonelli’s victory also witnessed him extend his lead atop the drivers’ championship to 66 points ahead of Hamilton, who jumped George Russell into second place.