The Red Bull team Expresses Regret Over Comments Following Death Threats Targeting Mercedes Star Kimi Antonelli

The Red Bull racing outfit has issued a statement expressing its sincere regret for comments made that preceded widespread online abuse, including vile threats, directed at young talent Kimi Antonelli.

Antonelli was said to have changed his Instagram profile to a solid black image on Monday, a response to the abusive comments that appeared on his accounts. Mercedes confirmed that a number of these messages constituted threats against the driver's life.

The controversy stems from radio communications during the closing stages of the recent race. Red Bull engineer Gianpiero Lambiase remarked over the air that it "looked like" Antonelli had "just pulled over" to allow rival driver Lando Norris to pass.

This incident proved crucial for the title fight, as the overtake earned him extra points. This extended the McLaren driver's championship lead over Verstappen to a dozen points ahead of the season finale in Abu Dhabi.

In its statement, Red Bull clarified: "Comments made implying that Mercedes driver had intentionally let Lando Norris to overtake are clearly incorrect. Video evidence shows Antonelli briefly losing control of his car, thereby allowing Norris to get by. We deeply regret that this has resulted in Kimi receiving online abuse."

The team's statement did not include a direct apology for the initial accusation. However, reports indicate that Lambiase later apologised to Toto Wolff after being shown footage of the on-track moment.

"This is complete and utter rubbish. That blows my mind even to hear that," stated Wolff. "We are fighting for second place in the constructors' championship... How foolish can you be to even say something like this?"

Wolff added that he had cleared the air with Lambiase, who claimed he did not witness the actual incident when he spoke over the radio. Mercedes reported a "1,100% increase" in abusive messages targeting Antonelli after the Grand Prix.

For his part, Antonelli explained the racing incident as a simple mistake. He said he was pushing hard to catch Carlos Sainz and experienced a "massive moment" that caused him to go off track and lose the position.

"It proved really hard with the turbulence and the tyres were overheating," Antonelli remarked. "A shame to lose the place because it would have been two more points."

Key Points from the Situation

• Red Bull has voiced remorse for comments made by a staff member.
• Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli was targeted by death threats in the aftermath of those comments.
• The controversial remark centered on an overtaking move that impacted the championship standings.
• Video replays confirm Antonelli lost control, debunking the suggestion of team orders.
• The individual in question has expressed regret to Mercedes management.