Red Bull Expresses Remorse Regarding Remarks Linked to Death Threats Targeting Mercedes Star Kimi Antonelli

The Red Bull racing outfit has released a comment stating its deep remorse for comments made that preceded widespread online abuse, including vile threats, directed at Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli.

Antonelli reportedly switched his social media picture to a solid black image on Monday, a reaction to the abusive comments that flooded his accounts. His team confirmed that a number of these communications included direct threats against the youngster's life.

The situation originated with team radio during the closing stages of the recent race. Max Verstappen's race engineer remarked over the air that it "looked like" Antonelli had "just pulled over" to let McLaren's Lando Norris to pass.

This occurrence proved significant for the championship battle, as Norris's pass earned him two additional points. This extended the McLaren driver's points advantage over Verstappen to a dozen points ahead of the final race in Abu Dhabi.

In its official communication, Red Bull clarified: "Comments voiced implying that Mercedes driver had deliberately allowed Lando Norris past are clearly incorrect. Replay footage demonstrates Antonelli momentarily losing control of his car, thus enabling Norris to pass him. We deeply regret that this has resulted in Kimi receiving such abuse."

The team's announcement did not include a formal apology for the original claim. However, reports indicate that Lambiase subsequently apologised to Toto Wolff after being shown footage of the on-track moment.

"This is complete and utter rubbish. That astounds me even to hear that," said Wolff. "We are battling for P2 in the team standings... How foolish can you be to even say something like this?"

Wolff explained that he had cleared the air with Lambiase, who claimed he had not seen the actual incident when he made the comment. The team noted a "1,100% increase" in negative traffic targeting Antonelli following the Grand Prix.

For his part, Antonelli explained the moment as a error. He commented he was pushing hard to catch Carlos Sainz and experienced a "massive moment" that caused him to run wide and lose the position.

"It was really hard with the dirty air and the tyres were overheating," Antonelli remarked. "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 comments made by a staff member.
• Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli was targeted by severe online abuse in the aftermath of those comments.
• The controversial remark involved an overtaking move that affected the championship standings.
• Video evidence confirm Antonelli lost control, contradicting the suggestion of deliberate action.
• The engineer involved has expressed regret to Mercedes management.