The Red Bull team Expresses Regret Over Remarks Linked to Death Threats Targeting Mercedes Star Kimi Antonelli

The Red Bull Formula 1 team has issued a statement expressing its deep remorse for comments made that were followed by a torrent of social media vitriol, including vile threats, directed at Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli.

Antonelli reportedly switched his Instagram profile to a solid black image on Monday, a response to the abusive comments that flooded his accounts. Mercedes confirmed that several of these communications constituted threats against the youngster's life.

The controversy stems from radio communications during the final laps of the Qatar Grand Prix. Max Verstappen's race engineer suggested over the air that it "looked like" Antonelli had "deliberately moved aside" to allow rival driver Lando Norris through.

This incident proved crucial for the championship battle, as Norris's pass secured two additional points. This extended the Briton's championship lead over Verstappen to a dozen points heading into the final race in Abu Dhabi.

In its statement, Red Bull clarified: "Comments made implying that Mercedes driver had deliberately allowed Lando Norris to overtake are factually wrong. Video evidence shows Antonelli briefly losing control of his car, thus enabling Norris to pass him. We deeply regret that this has resulted in Kimi being subjected to online abuse."

The team's announcement stopped short of a direct apology for the initial accusation. However, reports indicate that Lambiase later said sorry to Toto Wolff after reviewing video evidence of the incident.

"This is complete and utter rubbish. That blows my mind even to hear that," said Wolff. "We are battling for P2 in the constructors' championship... How brainless can you be to even suggest something like this?"

Wolff explained that he had spoken with Lambiase, who stated he did not witness the actual incident when he made the comment. Mercedes noted a "massive surge" in abusive messages targeting Antonelli after the race.

For his part, Antonelli described the moment as a error. He commented he was driving aggressively to close on the Williams ahead and experienced a "massive moment" that caused him to go off track and surrender fourth place.

"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 radio remarks made by a team member.
• Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli was targeted by severe online abuse in the wake of those comments.
• The controversial remark involved an on-track pass that impacted the title battle.
• Video replays confirm Antonelli lost control, contradicting the suggestion of team orders.
• The engineer involved has apologised to Mercedes management.