International media erupt over Antonelli's Belgian GP display: 'The prodigy delivered'

The Mercedes driver, who started from pole position, produced a composed and commanding display in what proved to be a dramatic race. Antonelli fended off an early challenge from Max Verstappen before later passing Charles Leclerc to reclaim the lead and secure victory at the legendary Belgian circuit.

The triumph marked Antonelli's sixth win of the season and extended his lead at the top of the Drivers' Championship to 45 points over Lewis Hamilton, who moved into second in the standings after George Russell retired from the race.

Antonelli's latest triumph has not gone unnoticed, with several international media outlets hailing the 19-year-old's performance. Here is how the global press reacted to his stunning display at Spa.

The German outlet focused on Antonelli's emphatic response after his retirement at the British Grand Prix, highlighting how the Mercedes driver strengthened his grip on the championship.

"Antonelli strikes back in Spa," it wrote. "The car held up, the prodigy delivered: Kimi Antonelli severely hampered the latest comeback attempt by his title rivals and extended his lead in the World Championship standings. The 19-year-old Mercedes driver won the Belgian Grand Prix on Sunday, celebrating his sixth Formula 1 victory of the season ahead of Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen."

The Spanish publication took a more unconventional approach, focusing on Antonelli's champagne celebrations after the race. It also argued that victory at Spa further underlined why the Italian has emerged as the clear favourite for the title.

"Kimi Antonelli's bathroom," it headlined. "The Italian dominates in Belgium and extends his lead in Formula 1, consolidating his status as the overwhelming favourite. Antonelli, whom only his mother Veronica calls by his first name, Andrea, left one of the most memorable images on the top step of the podium at Spa-Francorchamps, one of the most prestigious and iconic circuits in Formula 1. Bathed in champagne, his long hair and youthful appearance evoked the legends of decades past. They are legends with whom he is not yet meant to be compared, but who inevitably come to mind whenever the young prodigy takes another step towards a world title."

The Italian newspaper compared Antonelli to Formula 1 legend Alberto Ascari, praising his return to winning ways after a difficult spell and describing victory at Spa as a defining achievement.

"Antonelli like Ascari," it wrote. "The Bolognese driver takes his sixth win of the season and returns to flying form after three disappointing races. A resurgent Leclerc confirms his excellent form after his victory at Silverstone. Hamilton remains in contention and is now second in the championship. George Russell was unfortunate but ultimately unconvincing. Winning at Spa, the circuit regarded as the university of Formula 1, is another testament to Antonelli's extraordinary talent."