Bologna hails hometown champion Antonelli after historic F1 title

Kimi Antonelli's emergence as Formula 1's youngest world champion has brought pride to his home city of Bologna, with people who watched him grow up describing a driver who remains closely connected to the area. In interviews reported by BBC Sport, a karting figure, a restaurant owner and a local resident reflected on the 20-year-old Mercedes driver's achievement and his life away from the circuit.

Watch the highlights: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nk-F1U8R9pw

The title ends Italy's 73-year wait for a Formula 1 drivers' champion, according to the BBC. Antonelli's season also included victory in the Italian Grand Prix after starting 19th. His celebration at Monza carried a reference to his home region: he was pictured eating tagliatelle al ragu from the winner's trophy, linking the racing success with Bologna's food traditions.

Manuel Fantini recalled seeing Antonelli drive a go-kart at six years old at Galliano Park, a track his family has owned for almost three decades. The kart needed adjustments because Antonelli could not reach its pedals. Fantini told the BBC that the youngster improved with each lap and finished that first day quicker than other drivers despite having a slower kart.

Fantini, himself a former racer, credited Antonelli's approach to learning rather than simply chasing speed. He also praised the driver's parents for helping him remain grounded as his talent developed. His account placed the beginnings of Antonelli's career at the family-run track, long before the success that has now made him a world champion.

In Bologna's city centre, restaurant owner Luca Bugamelli described Antonelli as a familiar customer at Trattoria dal Biassanot. He said the driver visits with his father, mother and sister, and that they have shared meals at the same table. Despite those connections, the BBC reported that the restaurant does not display photographs of his visits.

Antonelli's Mercedes seat has also given local Ferrari supporters another driver to follow. A Bologna resident identified by the BBC as Paolo described friends seeing support divided between Ferrari and Antonelli at Monza. He also spoke of Antonelli walking around Bologna and attending the city's football matches, illustrating the continuing local ties celebrated alongside his championship success.