Red Bull Voices Regret Regarding Remarks Following Death Threats Targeting Driver Kimi Antonelli
The Red Bull Formula 1 team has released a comment expressing its deep remorse for comments made that preceded a torrent of online abuse, including vile threats, directed at Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli.
Antonelli was said to have changed his social media picture to a blank image on Monday, a reaction to the abusive comments that flooded his accounts. Mercedes confirmed that a number of these messages included threats against the youngster's life.
The situation originated with radio communications during the closing stages of the Qatar Grand Prix. Max Verstappen's race engineer suggested over the air that it "appeared as if" Antonelli had "just pulled over" to allow McLaren's Lando Norris through.
This occurrence proved crucial for the championship battle, as Norris's pass earned him two additional points. This increased 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 suggesting that Mercedes driver had intentionally let Lando Norris past are clearly incorrect. Video evidence demonstrates Antonelli momentarily losing control of his car, thus enabling Norris to pass him. We sincerely regret that this has resulted in Kimi being subjected to such abuse."
The team's announcement did not include a direct apology for the initial accusation. However, sources indicate that Lambiase subsequently said sorry to Toto Wolff after reviewing video evidence of the incident.
"This is total, utter nonsense. That astounds me even to hear that," said Wolff. "We are fighting for second place in the constructors' championship... How foolish can you be to even suggest something like this?"
Wolff explained that he had cleared the air with Lambiase, who claimed he had not seen the moment when he spoke over the radio. Mercedes reported a "massive surge" in negative traffic targeting Antonelli following the Grand Prix.
For his part, Antonelli explained the racing incident as a simple mistake. He commented he was driving aggressively to catch Carlos Sainz and had a "massive moment" that caused him to run wide and lose the position.
"It proved really hard with the turbulence and the tyres were overheating," the driver stated. "A shame to lose the place because it would have been two more points."
Main Takeaways from the Situation
- Red Bull has voiced remorse for radio remarks made by a team member.
- Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli received death threats in the wake of those comments.
- The controversial remark centered on an overtaking move that affected the championship standings.
- Video evidence show Antonelli lost control, contradicting the suggestion of team orders.
- The individual in question has expressed regret to Mercedes team leadership.
