The Red Bull team Expresses Remorse Over Comments Linked to Online Abuse Against Mercedes Star Kimi Antonelli

The Red Bull racing outfit has issued a statement expressing its sincere regret for post-race remarks that preceded widespread online abuse, including vile threats, directed at young talent Kimi Antonelli.

Antonelli was said to have switched his social media picture to a solid black image on Monday, a reaction to the hurtful messages that appeared on his accounts. His team confirmed that a number of these messages included direct threats against the driver's life.

The controversy originated with team radio during the final laps 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 let rival driver Lando Norris to pass.

This occurrence proved crucial for the title fight, as Norris's pass earned him two additional points. This extended the Briton's championship lead over Verstappen to 12 points ahead of the final race in Abu Dhabi.

In its official communication, Red Bull clarified: "Observations voiced suggesting that Mercedes driver had deliberately allowed Lando Norris to overtake are clearly incorrect. Video evidence demonstrates Antonelli briefly losing control of his car, thereby allowing Norris to get by. We sincerely regret that this has resulted in Kimi being subjected to online abuse."

The team's announcement did not include a direct apology for the initial accusation. However, sources indicate that Lambiase later said sorry to Mercedes team principal after reviewing video evidence of the on-track moment.

"This is complete and utter rubbish. That blows my mind even to hear that," stated Wolff. "We are battling for second place in the team standings... How brainless 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. Mercedes reported a "massive surge" in negative traffic targeting Antonelli after the race.

For his part, Antonelli explained the racing incident as a simple mistake. He said he was driving aggressively to close on the Williams ahead and had a "big snap" that led him to go off track and surrender fourth place.

"It proved really hard with the dirty air and the tyres were overheating," the driver stated. "It's disappointing to lose the place because it would have been additional points."

Main Takeaways from the Incident

• Red Bull has voiced remorse for radio remarks made by a staff member.
• Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli received severe online abuse in the aftermath of those comments.
• The controversial remark involved an overtaking move that impacted the title battle.
• Video evidence confirm Antonelli lost control, contradicting the implication of team orders.
• The individual in question has expressed regret to Mercedes team leadership.