Antonelli received by Italian president Mattarella in Rome

Formula 1 world champion Kimi Antonelli, aged 19, and his family were received by Italian President Sergio Mattarella at the Quirinale Palace in Rome on Friday. Two weeks after clinching the 2026 Drivers' title at the Mexico Grand Prix, Antonelli is the first Italian to win the championship since Alberto Ascari in 1953. He presented Mattarella with one of his racing helmets, signed with a dedication on the visor.

Antonelli described the physical demands of a Grand Prix, saying drivers lose roughly a couple of kilograms and wear fireproof suits in intense heat. Mattarella said the young champion's success had renewed his interest in the sport, and he hoped to attend a race next year, possibly at Monza.

The visit followed Antonelli's attendance at Italy's 3-1 win over France at Milan's San Siro Stadium on Thursday. He is now heading to Las Vegas as the championship enters its final three rounds.