Red Bull Voices Remorse Over Remarks Linked to Online Abuse Targeting Mercedes Star Kimi Antonelli

The Red Bull Formula 1 team has issued a statement stating its deep remorse for comments made that preceded a torrent of online abuse, including death threats, directed at Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli.

Antonelli was said to have switched his Instagram profile to a blank image on Monday, a reaction to the hurtful messages that appeared on his accounts. Mercedes stated that a number of these messages constituted threats against the youngster's life.

The situation originated with radio communications 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 through.

This incident proved crucial for the championship battle, as Norris's pass earned him extra points. This extended the McLaren driver's points advantage over Verstappen to a dozen points heading into the season finale in Abu Dhabi.

In its official communication, Red Bull clarified: "Comments voiced implying that Kimi Antonelli had deliberately allowed Lando Norris past are clearly incorrect. Replay footage demonstrates Antonelli momentarily losing control of his car, thereby 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 initial accusation. However, sources indicate that Lambiase subsequently apologised to Toto Wolff 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 explained that he had spoken with Lambiase, who stated he did not witness the actual incident when he made the comment. Mercedes noted a "massive surge" in abusive messages targeting Antonelli after the Grand Prix.

For his part, Antonelli explained the racing incident as a error. He commented he was pushing hard to catch the Williams ahead and had a "massive moment" that led him to go off track and lose the position.

"It proved really hard with the dirty air and the high tyre temperatures," the driver stated. "It's disappointing to lose the place because it would have been additional points."

Key Points from the Incident

• Red Bull has expressed regret for comments made by a team member.
• Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli was targeted by death threats in the wake of those comments.
• The controversial remark centered on an overtaking move that impacted the championship standings.
• Video replays show Antonelli lost control, contradicting the suggestion of deliberate action.
• The individual in question has expressed regret to Mercedes team leadership.