Red Bull Expresses Regret Regarding Remarks Following Online Abuse Targeting Mercedes Star Kimi Antonelli

The Red Bull racing outfit has issued a statement stating its deep remorse for comments made that preceded a torrent of online abuse, including death threats, directed at young talent Kimi Antonelli.

Antonelli reportedly switched his Instagram profile to a solid black image on Monday, a reaction to the hurtful messages that appeared on his accounts. His team stated that a number of these communications constituted threats against the driver's life.

The situation originated with radio communications during the closing stages of the recent race. Max Verstappen's race engineer remarked over the air that it "looked like" Antonelli had "just pulled over" to let rival driver Lando Norris through.

This occurrence proved significant for the championship battle, as Norris's pass secured two additional points. This increased the Briton's championship lead over Verstappen to 12 points heading into the final race in Abu Dhabi.

In its official communication, Red Bull asserted: "Observations voiced implying that Kimi Antonelli had intentionally let Lando Norris past are clearly incorrect. Video evidence demonstrates Antonelli briefly losing control of his car, thus allowing Norris to pass him. We deeply regret that this has resulted in Kimi receiving online abuse."

The team's announcement did not include a formal apology for the initial accusation. However, reports indicate that Lambiase later said sorry to Toto Wolff after being shown footage of the incident.

"This is complete and utter rubbish. That blows my mind even to hear that," stated Wolff. "We are battling for P2 in the constructors' championship... How foolish can you be to even suggest something like this?"

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

For his part, Antonelli described the moment as a error. He said he was driving aggressively to close on Carlos Sainz and experienced a "big snap" that led him to run wide and lose the position.

"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 additional points."

Key Points from the Situation

• Red Bull has voiced remorse for comments made by a team member.
• Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli was targeted by death threats in the aftermath of those comments.
• The disputed comment centered on an on-track pass that impacted the championship standings.
• Video replays show Antonelli made a mistake, debunking the implication of deliberate action.
• The engineer involved has apologised to Mercedes team leadership.