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Kimi Antonelli Welcomed at Quirinal After Winning Formula 1 Title

The presidential reception signals revived Italian attention to the sport as Antonelli prepares to resume racing in Las Vegas.

Overview

  • Antonelli secured the 2026 Formula 1 world championship at the Mexican Grand Prix, ending an Italian championship drought that dated to 1953.
  • He was officially received by President Sergio Mattarella at the Quirinal Palace, where he presented a personally signed racing helmet and met with his family.
  • During the meeting Antonelli described the sport's physical strain, saying drivers can lose roughly two kilograms in a race and noting cold-water recovery and targeted training.
  • A few hours before the presidential audience he attended Italy's 3-1 win over France in Rome and spent time celebrating his title in San Marino, where he lives.
  • Antonelli will shortly return to the United States to contest the Las Vegas Grand Prix as the 2026 season moves toward its final races.