Red Bull Expresses Remorse Over Remarks Linked to Death Threats Targeting Mercedes Star Kimi Antonelli

The Red Bull racing outfit has issued a statement stating its sincere regret for post-race remarks that were followed by a torrent of social media vitriol, including death threats, directed at young talent Kimi Antonelli.

Antonelli reportedly changed his Instagram profile to a solid black image on Monday, a reaction to the hurtful messages that appeared on his accounts. Mercedes stated that several of these messages constituted direct threats against the youngster's life.

The controversy originated with team radio during the closing stages of the recent race. Red Bull engineer Gianpiero Lambiase suggested over the air that it "looked like" Antonelli had "just pulled over" to allow McLaren's Lando Norris to pass.

This incident proved crucial for the title fight, as Norris's pass earned him two additional points. This increased the McLaren driver's points advantage over Verstappen to a dozen points ahead of the season finale in Abu Dhabi.

In its official communication, Red Bull asserted: "Comments voiced implying that Mercedes driver had deliberately allowed Lando Norris to overtake are clearly incorrect. Video evidence shows Antonelli briefly losing control of his car, thereby enabling Norris to pass him. We sincerely regret that this has resulted in Kimi being subjected to such abuse."

The team's statement did not include a direct apology for the initial accusation. However, sources indicate that Lambiase subsequently apologised to Mercedes team principal after reviewing footage of the on-track moment.

"This is total, utter nonsense. That blows my mind even to hear that," said Wolff. "We are fighting for P2 in the constructors' championship... How foolish can you be to even say something like this?"

Wolff added that he had spoken with Lambiase, who claimed he had not seen the actual incident 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 simple mistake. He commented he was driving aggressively to close on Carlos Sainz and experienced a "big snap" that caused him to run wide and surrender fourth place.

"It was really hard with the dirty air and the high tyre temperatures," Antonelli remarked. "It's disappointing to lose the place because it would have been two more points."

Key Points from the Situation

• Red Bull has voiced remorse for radio remarks made by a team member.
• Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli was targeted by death threats in the aftermath of those comments.
• The disputed comment involved an overtaking move that impacted the title battle.
• Video evidence confirm Antonelli made a mistake, debunking the suggestion of team orders.
• The individual in question has expressed regret to Mercedes team leadership.