Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli has described his Italian Grand Prix victory as a “dream come true” in a heartfelt message shared with fans after becoming the first home driver to win at Monza since 1966.
Antonelli mounted a remarkable comeback from an engine penalty that dropped him to 19th on the grid to claim victory in Sunday’s race. The 20-year-old passed team-mate George Russell in the closing stages to secure his seventh win of the 2026 Formula 1 season.
Taking to social media on Monday morning, the Italian driver expressed gratitude to the passionate local crowd for their reception during the post-race podium ceremony.
“P1 at home!! It’s hard to describe yesterday. It’s a dream come true,” Antonelli posted. “What I experienced is something I will never forget, the Monza podium is indescribable, the warmth of all the fans and the sea of people that never ends.
“I really want to thank all the people who made this possible and who are making this year special.”
Following his commanding win at Monza, Antonelli extended his lead in the drivers’ championship standings. He now holds a 66-point advantage over Mercedes team-mate George Russell, who sits second in the title race.
Antonelli was questioned about the championship fight after the race. When asked by Sky Sports F1 if he now considered the title his to lose, he explained: “No, not at all. I just take it race by race because you never know what can happen. Today went well, we had a massive opportunity and we took it, but of course next week we have Madrid and it’s going to be a new challenge.
“We will have to be on top of our game because it’s a new track for everyone and it’s going to be important to be on point in order to maximise track time and everything. I’m going to enjoy this moment and then focus on the next one, and then focus on the next one again until the end of the season.”
