The Red Bull team Voices Regret Regarding Remarks Linked to Online Abuse Targeting Driver Kimi Antonelli

The Red Bull racing outfit has released a comment stating its deep remorse for comments made that preceded widespread social media vitriol, including vile threats, directed at young talent 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 several of these communications constituted direct threats against the youngster's life.

The controversy originated with radio communications during the final laps of the Qatar Grand Prix. Max Verstappen's race engineer suggested over the air that it "appeared as if" Antonelli had "just pulled over" to allow McLaren's Lando Norris to pass.

This occurrence proved significant for the championship battle, as the overtake earned him extra points. This extended the Briton's points advantage over Verstappen to 12 points heading into the final race in Abu Dhabi.

In its statement, Red Bull asserted: "Observations made implying that Mercedes driver had intentionally let Lando Norris to overtake are factually wrong. Replay footage shows Antonelli momentarily losing control of his car, thereby allowing Norris to pass him. We deeply regret that this has resulted in Kimi receiving online abuse."

The team's statement did not include a formal apology for the initial accusation. However, sources indicate that Lambiase later apologised to Toto Wolff after being shown footage of the incident.

"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 brainless 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 spoke over the radio. The team noted a "1,100% increase" in negative traffic targeting Antonelli following the Grand Prix.

For his part, Antonelli described the moment as a error. He said he was driving aggressively to catch Carlos Sainz and experienced a "big snap" that caused him to run wide and lose the position.

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

Key Points from the Situation

• Red Bull has voiced remorse for comments made by a team member.
• Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli received severe online abuse in the aftermath of those comments.
• The controversial remark involved an on-track pass that affected the championship standings.
• Video replays show Antonelli made a mistake, debunking the suggestion of team orders.
• The individual in question has apologised to Mercedes management.