The Red Bull team Voices Regret Regarding Remarks Linked to Death Threats Against Mercedes Star Kimi Antonelli

The Red Bull Formula 1 team has issued a statement expressing its deep remorse for post-race remarks that preceded a torrent of social media vitriol, including vile threats, directed at Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli.

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

The controversy stems from team radio during the final laps of the recent race. Red Bull engineer Gianpiero Lambiase suggested over the air that it "looked like" Antonelli had "deliberately moved aside" to let McLaren's Lando Norris through.

This occurrence proved crucial for the title fight, as Norris's pass earned him two additional points. This extended the McLaren driver's championship lead over Verstappen to 12 points heading into the season finale in Abu Dhabi.

In its official communication, Red Bull asserted: "Observations voiced implying that Kimi Antonelli had intentionally let Lando Norris to overtake are factually wrong. Replay footage shows Antonelli momentarily losing control of his car, thus allowing Norris to get by. We sincerely regret that this has resulted in Kimi receiving such abuse."

The team's announcement did not include a direct apology for the initial accusation. However, reports indicate that Lambiase later said sorry to Mercedes team principal after being shown 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 P2 in the team standings... How foolish can you be to even say something like this?"

Wolff added that he had spoken with Lambiase, who stated he had not seen the actual incident when he made the comment. Mercedes reported a "1,100% increase" in negative traffic targeting Antonelli after the Grand Prix.

For his part, Antonelli described the moment as a simple mistake. He commented he was pushing hard to close on the Williams ahead and experienced a "big snap" that caused him to go off track and surrender fourth place.

"It was really hard with the turbulence and the tyres were overheating," the driver stated. "It's disappointing to lose the place because it would have been two more points."

Key Points from the Incident

• Red Bull has expressed regret for comments made by a team member.
• Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli received death threats in the aftermath of those comments.
• The disputed comment involved an on-track pass that impacted the championship standings.
• Video evidence show Antonelli made a mistake, debunking the suggestion of team orders.
• The engineer involved has expressed regret to Mercedes team leadership.