Red Bull Expresses Remorse Over Comments Linked to Death Threats Targeting Mercedes Star Kimi Antonelli
The Red Bull racing outfit has issued a statement expressing its sincere regret for post-race remarks that preceded a torrent of online abuse, including vile threats, directed at Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli.
Antonelli reportedly changed his social media picture to a blank image on Monday, a response to the hurtful messages that appeared on his accounts. His team stated that a number of these communications included threats against the driver's life.
The situation stems from radio communications during the final laps of the Qatar Grand Prix. Red Bull engineer Gianpiero Lambiase suggested over the air that it "looked like" Antonelli had "deliberately moved aside" to allow rival driver Lando Norris to pass.
This occurrence proved crucial for the championship battle, as Norris's pass secured two additional points. This increased the McLaren driver's championship lead over Verstappen to a dozen points heading into the season finale in Abu Dhabi.
In its statement, Red Bull clarified: "Observations made implying that Kimi Antonelli had deliberately allowed Lando Norris past are clearly incorrect. Video evidence demonstrates Antonelli momentarily losing control of his car, thus enabling Norris to get by. We sincerely regret that this has led to Kimi receiving online abuse."
The team's statement did not include a direct apology for the initial accusation. However, sources indicate that Lambiase later said sorry to Toto Wolff after being shown footage of the incident.
"This is total, utter nonsense. That astounds me even to hear that," stated Wolff. "We are battling for P2 in the team standings... How brainless can you be to even say something like this?"
Wolff explained that he had cleared the air with Lambiase, who stated he had not seen the moment when he made the comment. The team noted a "1,100% increase" in abusive messages targeting Antonelli following the race.
For his part, Antonelli described the moment as a simple mistake. He commented he was driving aggressively to catch the Williams ahead and experienced a "big snap" that led him to run wide and surrender fourth place.
"It proved really hard with the dirty air and the high tyre temperatures," Antonelli remarked. "It's disappointing to lose the place because it would have been two more points."
Key Points from the Situation
- Red Bull has expressed regret for radio remarks made by a staff member.
- Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli received severe online abuse in the aftermath of those comments.
- The disputed comment centered on an on-track pass that impacted the championship standings.
- Video evidence confirm Antonelli made a mistake, contradicting the implication of team orders.
- The individual in question has apologised to Mercedes management.
