Red Bull Voices Remorse Over Comments Linked to Death Threats Targeting Mercedes Star Kimi Antonelli
The Red Bull Formula 1 team has issued a statement expressing its sincere regret for comments made that preceded a torrent of social media vitriol, including vile threats, directed at Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli.
Antonelli reportedly changed his Instagram profile to a solid black image on Monday, a response to the hurtful messages that appeared on his accounts. His team stated that a number of these messages included threats against the driver's life.
The situation stems from team radio during the final laps of the recent race. Max Verstappen's race engineer suggested over the air that it "appeared as if" Antonelli had "just pulled over" to let McLaren's Lando Norris through.
This incident proved crucial for the title fight, as the overtake secured extra points. This increased the Briton's championship lead over Verstappen to 12 points heading into the final race in Abu Dhabi.
In its official communication, Red Bull clarified: "Observations voiced suggesting that Mercedes driver had intentionally let Lando Norris to overtake are clearly incorrect. Video evidence shows Antonelli momentarily losing control of his car, thereby enabling Norris to pass him. We deeply regret that this has led to Kimi being subjected to online abuse."
The team's statement did not include a formal apology for the initial accusation. However, reports indicate that Lambiase later said sorry to Mercedes team principal after reviewing video evidence of the incident.
"This is total, utter nonsense. That blows my mind even to hear that," said Wolff. "We are fighting for second place in the team standings... How brainless can you be to even say something like this?"
Wolff explained that he had spoken with Lambiase, who claimed he had not seen the moment when he spoke over the radio. Mercedes reported a "1,100% increase" in negative traffic targeting Antonelli after the race.
For his part, Antonelli described the moment as a simple mistake. He commented he was driving aggressively to close on the Williams ahead and experienced a "massive moment" that caused him to run wide and lose the position.
"It proved really hard with the dirty air and the high tyre temperatures," Antonelli remarked. "A shame to lose the place because it would have been additional points."
Key Points from the Situation
- Red Bull has voiced remorse for comments made by a staff member.
- Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli was targeted by severe online abuse in the wake of those comments.
- The disputed comment centered on an on-track pass that impacted the title battle.
- Video replays show Antonelli lost control, debunking the suggestion of deliberate action.
- The individual in question has apologised to Mercedes team leadership.
