Kimi Antonelli Shatters Records: Youngest F1 Champion Ever, Secures $11 Million Earnings for 2026

Kimi Antonelli has etched his name in the history books, becoming the youngest Formula 1 World Champion at the age of 20 years and 68 days. The Italian clinched the prestigious title on Sunday by finishing third for Mercedes at the Mexican Grand Prix. This remarkable achievement saw Antonelli surpass the previous record held by Sebastian Vettel, who was 23 years and 134 days old when he won his first championship in 2010, marking the beginning of Red Bull's dominant era. Antonelli also made history as the first Italian F1 champion since 1953, having secured an insurmountable 119-point lead in the championship standings.

“I’m speechless. I’m trying to process what has just happened,” Antonelli shared after his monumental victory. “It’s been an incredible season, and to share this podium with Max (Verstappen) and Lewis (Hamilton) is truly incredible. And looking forward to some more battles in the future. This weekend I did feel a bit more tense. But I’m just so happy that we got it done, and now we can enjoy the rest of the season,” he added. Reflecting on the final moments, he said, “On the last lap, I just backed off because I just couldn't see the track. I was getting emotional. So it was just good to bring it home.”

While F1 championship prize money is awarded directly to teams, Antonelli will not go home empty-handed. He is set to receive a substantial bonus in addition to his base salary for his championship triumph. For the 2026 season, Antonelli's base salary was reportedly $2 million, a figure significantly lower than top drivers like Max Verstappen ($70 million) and Lewis Hamilton ($60 million). However, following his championship win, Antonelli's total earnings for 2026, including bonuses, are projected to reach approximately $11 million. Furthermore, he is expected to significantly increase his earnings next year through sponsorships, endorsements, and an improved salary structure.

Estimated 2026 Formula One Salaries:

• Max Verstappen (Red Bull) – $70 million base salary
• Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) – $60 million
• Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) – $34-36 million
• George Russell (Mercedes) – $34 million
• Lando Norris (McLaren) – $30 million
• Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin) – $20-24 million
• Oscar Piastri (McLaren) – $13-15 million
• Carlos Sainz (Williams) – $13 million
• Pierre Gasly (Alpine) – $12 million
• Alex Albon (Williams) – $12 million
• Lance Stroll (Aston Martin) – $12 million
• Sergio Perez (Cadillac) – $8-9 million
• Nico Hulkenberg (Audi) – $7 million
• Esteban Ocon (Haas) – $7 million
• Isack Hadjar (Red Bull) – $5 million
• Valtteri Bottas (Cadillac) – $5 million
• Gabriel Bortoleto (Audi) – $2 million
• Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) – $2 million
• Liam Lawson (Racing Bulls) – $1-2 million
• Oliver Bearman (Haas) – $1 million
• Franco Colapinto (Alpine) – $1 million
• Arvid Lindblad (Racing Bulls) – $1 million

Note: Data compiled from f1salaries.com and racingnews365.com.