George Russell took the boos from the Tifosi in his stride as he stepped onto the podium at the Italian Grand Prix, having been beaten by Mercedes team-mate Andrea Kimi Antonelli in a spectacular home win.
Antonelli started from 19th on the grid after an engine penalty but produced a stunning drive to challenge Russell for the lead, with the two title rivals engaging in a thrilling battle.
A mid-race Virtual Safety Car proved crucial, as Mercedes pitted Antonelli for fresh medium tyres. He carved through the field and passed George Russell with three laps to go, despite a brief off-track moment earlier when they nearly collided at Turn 1.
When Russell received his runner-up trophy, the Monza crowd made their feelings clear with loud jeers. But the Briton remained unfazed by the partisan reception.
“Obviously when you’re racing in somebody else’s home country, that’s to be expected,” Russell said. “So, yeah, smirked it off.”
Russell was gracious in defeat, congratulating Antonelli on his first F1 win. “Huge congrats to Kimi, incredible result from him. I was struggling with the tyres, did the whole race on that one tyre. I’ll take it, but I’d have loved to be P1 today,” he added.
The result leaves Russell 66 points behind Antonelli with 10 races remaining, intensifying the championship fight.
Read Also
Kimi Antonelli wins Italian GP at Monza, first Italian since 1966. Leads Russell by 66 points. Read his emotional message!
Fred Vasseur hints Ferrari may consider team orders after the Monza clash between Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc. Will the Scuderia change strategy?
Kimi Antonelli wins dramatic Italian GP 2026 after starting P19. See full F1 driver ratings at Monza, from Gasly to Stroll.
Continue with Google
Discussion (0)
Join the Discussion!
Sign in easily to start commenting, replying, and interacting with other readers.
Latest Comments
No comments yet. Be the first!