FIA RELEASE OFFICIAL STATEMENT AFTER KIMI ANTONELLI RECEIVES DEATH THREATS FOLLOWING QATAR GP
The FIA has issued a strong and urgent statement after Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli became the target of shocking online abuse, including multiple death threats, in the aftermath of the Qatar Grand Prix. The governing body stepped in after the young Italian driver faced an intense and concentrated wave of harassment across social media, triggered by speculation and claims made in the heat of post-race analysis.
The situation escalated rapidly after Antonelli made a late-race mistake that allowed Lando Norris to overtake him during one of the most critical moments of the championship battle. Within minutes of the chequered flag, comments from rival team members insinuated that the Italian had intentionally yielded the position. These claims circulated widely and were quickly amplified online, sparking a backlash that intensified into targeted abuse, threats, and aggressive accusations toward the nineteen-year-old.
The FIA’s statement condemned the behaviour in firm and direct terms, stressing that no driver should ever be subjected to threatening or abusive messages for any reason. The organisation reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on harassment, calling for immediate restraint, accountability, and a collective effort to restore respect within the sport’s global fanbase. They reminded the community that the emotional intensity of Formula One must never justify the mistreatment of individuals who dedicate their lives to competing at the highest level.
In the statement, the FIA also highlighted its continued commitment to initiatives aimed at combating online toxicity. It reiterated that measures are already in place to monitor, address, and escalate cases of digital abuse directed at drivers, teams, officials, and any person connected with the sport. The body emphasised that it will not hesitate to work with teams and external authorities if a threat crosses into the realm of criminal behaviour.
Behind the scenes, Mercedes has been offering full support to Antonelli, who has remained largely silent publicly as the hostility intensified. Sources inside the paddock indicate that the young driver has been deeply affected by the scale and severity of the attacks, many of which appeared after the spread of misinformation and premature accusations. Team principals and several senior figures in the paddock have also dismissed the early claims of intentional manoeuvring, describing them as unfounded and irresponsible.
This incident has reopened a larger conversation within Formula One about the rising levels of hostility on social media, driven by polarised fanbases and rapid online speculation. As drivers become younger and the digital spotlight grows harsher, the responsibility placed on teams, commentators, and governing bodies has never been greater. What begins as a small comment or emotional reaction can quickly evolve into widespread targeted harassment, as seen in Antonelli’s case.
The FIA’s intervention signals a clear attempt to draw a line in the sand as the sport enters an era where online behaviour holds significant real-world consequences. The call for compassion and responsibility serves as a reminder that criticism is part of racing, but abuse and threats—especially toward young athletes—have no place in the sport.
As the paddock looks ahead and tensions continue to run high, the message is unmistakable. No matter the controversies on track, Formula One must protect the wellbeing and dignity of those who compete. The FIA’s statement represents a decisive step toward ensuring that the safety of drivers extends beyond the cockpit and into the digital spaces where modern fans engage.
