The Red Bull team Expresses Regret Regarding Comments Following Death Threats Targeting Mercedes Star Kimi Antonelli

The Red Bull Formula 1 team has issued a statement expressing its deep remorse for post-race remarks that preceded widespread online abuse, including vile threats, directed at Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli.

Antonelli reportedly changed his social media picture to a solid black image on Monday, a reaction to the hurtful messages that flooded his accounts. His team confirmed that a number of these messages constituted threats against the youngster's life.

The situation stems from 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 "just pulled over" to let rival driver Lando Norris to pass.

This incident proved crucial for the title fight, as Norris's pass secured two additional points. This increased the McLaren driver's points advantage over Verstappen to 12 points heading into the final race in Abu Dhabi.

In its statement, Red Bull clarified: "Observations made suggesting that Kimi Antonelli had intentionally let Lando Norris past are factually wrong. Video evidence demonstrates Antonelli momentarily losing control of his car, thereby enabling Norris to get by. We deeply regret that this has led to Kimi receiving such abuse."

The team's announcement stopped short of a direct apology for the original claim. However, reports indicate that Lambiase subsequently said sorry 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," stated Wolff. "We are battling for P2 in the constructors' championship... 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 actual incident when he made the comment. The team reported a "1,100% increase" in abusive messages targeting Antonelli following the Grand Prix.

For his part, Antonelli explained the racing incident as a simple mistake. He commented he was pushing hard to catch 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 high tyre temperatures," Antonelli remarked. "It's disappointing to lose the place because it would have been additional points."

Key Points from the Incident

• Red Bull has voiced remorse for radio remarks made by a team member.
• Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli was targeted by death threats in the wake of those comments.
• The controversial remark involved an on-track pass that impacted the championship standings.
• Video replays show Antonelli lost control, contradicting the implication of deliberate action.
• The individual in question has apologised to Mercedes team leadership.