Red Bull Voices Regret Regarding Remarks Linked to Online Abuse Targeting Driver Kimi Antonelli
The Red Bull Formula 1 team has released a comment expressing its deep remorse for comments made that were followed by a torrent of online abuse, including death threats, directed at young talent Kimi Antonelli.
Antonelli reportedly switched his social media picture to a blank image on Monday, a reaction to the abusive comments that appeared on his accounts. His team confirmed that several of these messages constituted direct threats against the youngster's life.
The controversy stems from team radio during the closing stages of the recent race. Max Verstappen's race engineer remarked over the air that it "appeared as if" Antonelli had "just pulled over" to let McLaren's Lando Norris through.
This occurrence proved crucial for the championship battle, as Norris's pass earned him two additional points. This increased the Briton's championship lead over Verstappen to 12 points heading into the season finale in Abu Dhabi.
In its statement, Red Bull clarified: "Observations made implying that Mercedes driver had intentionally let Lando Norris past are factually wrong. Video evidence demonstrates Antonelli briefly losing control of his car, thus allowing Norris to get by. We deeply regret that this has resulted in Kimi being subjected to online abuse."
The team's announcement stopped short of a direct apology for the original claim. However, sources indicate that Lambiase subsequently apologised to Mercedes team principal after being shown video evidence of the on-track moment.
"This is complete and utter rubbish. That astounds me even to hear that," said Wolff. "We are battling for second place in the constructors' championship... How foolish can you be to even suggest something like this?"
Wolff added that he had spoken with Lambiase, who stated he had not seen the actual incident when he made the comment. The team 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 commented he was pushing hard to close on the Williams ahead and had a "massive moment" that caused him to go off track and lose the position.
"It proved really hard with the turbulence and the tyres were overheating," Antonelli remarked. "A shame to lose the place because it would have been two more points."
Key Points from the Incident
- Red Bull has voiced remorse for comments made by a staff member.
- Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli was targeted by severe online abuse in the aftermath of those comments.
- The controversial remark involved an on-track pass that affected the title battle.
- Video evidence confirm Antonelli lost control, debunking the suggestion of team orders.
- The individual in question has apologised to Mercedes management.
