The Red Bull team Expresses Remorse Over Comments Linked to Death Threats Targeting Mercedes Star Kimi Antonelli

The Red Bull Formula 1 team has issued a statement stating its sincere regret for comments made that preceded widespread online abuse, including death threats, directed at young talent Kimi Antonelli.

Antonelli was said to have changed his social media picture to a solid black image on Monday, a response to the abusive comments that flooded his accounts. His team stated that a number of these communications included threats against the youngster's life.

The controversy 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 rival driver Lando Norris through.

This occurrence proved significant for the title fight, as the overtake earned him two additional points. This extended the McLaren driver's championship lead over Verstappen to 12 points heading into the season finale in Abu Dhabi.

In its official communication, Red Bull clarified: "Comments made implying that Kimi Antonelli had intentionally let Lando Norris past are clearly incorrect. Replay footage shows Antonelli momentarily losing control of his car, thus allowing Norris to pass him. We deeply regret that this has resulted in Kimi being subjected to online abuse."

The team's announcement did not include a direct apology for the original claim. However, sources indicate that Lambiase subsequently said sorry to Mercedes team principal after being shown footage of the incident.

"This is complete and utter rubbish. That astounds me even to hear that," stated Wolff. "We are battling for second place in the team standings... How foolish can you be to even say something like this?"

Wolff added that he had cleared the air with Lambiase, who stated he did not witness the actual incident when he made the comment. Mercedes reported a "massive surge" in abusive messages targeting Antonelli after the Grand Prix.

For his part, Antonelli described the racing incident as a simple mistake. He commented he was driving aggressively to catch Carlos Sainz and experienced a "big snap" that led him to go off track and lose the position.

"It was really hard with the turbulence and the tyres were overheating," 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 radio remarks made by a team member.
• Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli was targeted by severe online abuse in the wake of those comments.
• The controversial remark centered on an overtaking move that affected the title battle.
• Video replays show Antonelli lost control, contradicting the implication of team orders.
• The individual in question has expressed regret to Mercedes team leadership.