Kimi Antonelli and Mercedes Poke Fun at Kim Kardashian's Monaco Plinth Blunder

Kimi Antonelli and the Mercedes-AMG Petronas team are leaning into the humor following a social media viral moment involving Kim Kardashian at the Monaco Grand Prix. The incident, which occurred post-race, has provided a brief comedic reprieve from the intense pressure of the 2026 championship battle.

Why it matters:

This lighthearted exchange underscores the current atmospheric shift within the Mercedes garage. With Antonelli delivering a historic level of dominance, the team is balancing the veteran prestige of Lewis Hamilton with the meteoric rise of their young star, maintaining a relaxed yet confident environment despite the high-profile scrutiny.

The Details:

• The Incident: Footage circulated online showing Kim Kardashian, partner of P2 finisher Lewis Hamilton, picking up and using a towel from the number one plinth—a spot strictly reserved for the race winner, Kimi Antonelli.
• The Reaction: Rather than taking offense, Antonelli and teammate George Russell have joined in on the joke, sharing playful jabs about the "towel theft" via team channels and social media.
• The Context: The moment comes during a peak performance stretch for the Italian sensation, who has effectively turned the early part of the 2026 season into a personal masterclass.

What's next:

As the paddock transitions to the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix, the focus returns to the track and a potential piece of history.

• A Historic Pursuit: Antonelli is now hunting for his sixth consecutive victory, a streak that would signal an unprecedented level of dominance.
• The Benchmark: Should he achieve this, he will surpass a milestone that has eluded even Lewis Hamilton throughout his legendary career.
• Team Synergy: The ability of the Mercedes camp to laugh off these moments suggests a healthy internal dynamic as they navigate a season of extraordinary success.