The Red Bull team Expresses Regret Over Remarks Linked to Online Abuse Against Mercedes Star Kimi Antonelli

The Red Bull Formula 1 team has released a comment stating its sincere regret for post-race remarks that preceded a torrent of social media vitriol, including vile threats, directed at Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli.

Antonelli reportedly switched his social media picture to a blank image on Monday, a response to the abusive comments that appeared on his accounts. His team confirmed that a number of these communications included direct threats against the driver'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 "deliberately moved aside" to let rival driver Lando Norris through.

This occurrence proved significant for the championship battle, as Norris's pass earned him extra points. This extended the Briton's championship lead over Verstappen to 12 points ahead of the season finale in Abu Dhabi.

In its official communication, Red Bull clarified: "Comments voiced implying that Mercedes driver had deliberately allowed Lando Norris to overtake are clearly incorrect. Video evidence demonstrates Antonelli momentarily losing control of his car, thus allowing Norris to pass him. We deeply regret that this has led to Kimi being subjected to such abuse."

The team's statement stopped short of a direct apology for the original claim. However, reports indicate that Lambiase subsequently apologised to Toto Wolff after reviewing footage of the incident.

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

Wolff explained that he had spoken with Lambiase, who claimed he had not seen the actual incident when he spoke over the radio. Mercedes reported a "1,100% increase" in negative traffic targeting Antonelli following the Grand Prix.

For his part, Antonelli described the racing incident as a simple mistake. He said he was pushing hard to catch Carlos Sainz and had a "massive moment" that caused him to go off track and surrender fourth place.

"It was really hard with the dirty air and the tyres were overheating," the driver stated. "It's disappointing to lose the place because it would have been two more points."

Main Takeaways from the Incident

• Red Bull has voiced remorse for radio remarks made by a team member.
• Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli was targeted by death threats in the wake of those comments.
• The disputed comment centered on an on-track pass that impacted the championship standings.
• Video replays confirm Antonelli lost control, debunking the suggestion of deliberate action.
• The engineer involved has expressed regret to Mercedes management.