MONZA, Italy — Kimi Antonelli took a big step Sunday toward becoming the youngest Formula 1 champion in the history of international open-wheel series, putting on a comeback for the ages in his home race.
Antonelli stormed to victory at the Italian Grand Prix, despite having started 19th. It took the Mercedes driver fewer than 17 laps to fight his way to the front.
The rest of the race was spent tussling with teammate and title rival George Russell for the lead. Antonelli passed him for the final time with three laps remaining, going on to become the first Italian to win at Monza in 60 years.
“Oh my God … It feels like a dream,” Antonelli, who turned 20 on Aug. 25, said on his team’s radio after crossing the finish line.
After the race, Antonelli admitted he “did not expect it” his seventh win of the season on this Sunday.