The Red Bull team Expresses Regret Over Comments 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 were followed by a torrent of online abuse, including vile threats, directed at young talent Kimi Antonelli.

Antonelli was said to have switched his Instagram profile to a blank image on Monday, a response to the hurtful messages that flooded his accounts. Mercedes stated that a number of these communications constituted 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 "appeared as if" Antonelli had "deliberately moved aside" to let rival driver Lando Norris through.

This occurrence proved significant for the title fight, as the overtake secured extra points. This extended the Briton's points advantage over Verstappen to 12 points heading into the season finale in Abu Dhabi.

In its official communication, Red Bull asserted: "Observations made suggesting that Mercedes driver had deliberately allowed Lando Norris past are clearly incorrect. Video evidence shows Antonelli momentarily losing control of his car, thereby allowing 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 later said sorry to Mercedes team principal after reviewing footage of the incident.

"This is total, utter nonsense. That blows my mind even to hear that," stated Wolff. "We are battling for P2 in the team standings... How foolish can you be to even say something like this?"

Wolff explained that he had spoken with Lambiase, who claimed he did not witness the moment when he spoke over the radio. Mercedes reported a "1,100% increase" in abusive messages targeting Antonelli after the race.

For his part, Antonelli explained the moment as a simple mistake. He commented he was driving aggressively to catch Carlos Sainz and experienced a "big snap" that led him to run wide and surrender fourth place.

"It was 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 expressed regret for comments made by a staff member.
• Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli received severe online abuse in the aftermath of those comments.
• The disputed comment involved an overtaking move that affected the championship standings.
• Video replays show Antonelli lost control, contradicting the suggestion of team orders.
• The individual in question has apologised to Mercedes management.