Red Bull Voices Regret Regarding Remarks Linked to Death Threats Targeting Mercedes Star Kimi Antonelli

The Red Bull Formula 1 team has released a comment stating its deep remorse for post-race remarks that were followed by a torrent of online abuse, including death threats, directed at Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli.

Antonelli was said to have changed his Instagram profile to a solid black image on Monday, a reaction to the hurtful messages that appeared on 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 final laps of the recent race. Max Verstappen's race engineer remarked over the air that it "appeared as if" Antonelli had "deliberately moved aside" to allow McLaren's Lando Norris to pass.

This occurrence proved crucial for the title fight, as Norris's pass secured two additional points. This increased the McLaren driver's championship lead over Verstappen to 12 points heading into the season finale in Abu Dhabi.

In its statement, Red Bull asserted: "Comments made suggesting that Kimi Antonelli had intentionally let Lando Norris past are clearly incorrect. Replay footage demonstrates Antonelli momentarily losing control of his car, thereby enabling Norris to get by. We sincerely regret that this has led to Kimi receiving online abuse."

The team's statement did not include a formal apology for the initial accusation. However, reports indicate that Lambiase later apologised to Mercedes team principal after being shown footage of the on-track moment.

"This is complete and utter rubbish. That astounds me even to hear that," said Wolff. "We are battling for P2 in the team standings... How foolish can you be to even suggest something like this?"

Wolff added that he had spoken with Lambiase, who claimed he did not witness the moment when he spoke over the radio. The team reported a "1,100% increase" in negative traffic targeting Antonelli following the Grand Prix.

For his part, Antonelli explained the racing incident as a error. He said he was driving aggressively to close on the Williams ahead and experienced a "massive moment" that led him to go off track and surrender fourth place.

"It proved really hard with the turbulence and the high tyre temperatures," Antonelli remarked. "It's disappointing to lose the place because it would have been additional points."

Key Points from the Incident

• Red Bull has voiced remorse for comments made by a team member.
• Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli was targeted by death threats in the aftermath of those comments.
• The controversial remark involved an overtaking move that affected the championship standings.
• Video replays confirm Antonelli lost control, contradicting the implication of deliberate action.
• The individual in question has apologised to Mercedes management.