Kimi Antonelli's win at the 2026 Belgian Grand Prix was more than just a win. The Mercedes driver dedicated the win to the man who has been by his side since the start of his remarkable rookie F1 season, his father, Marco Antonelli.
The 19-year-old stopped short of the party to write a brief but heartfelt message on one of the champagne bottles of the race: "Happy Birthday Daddy".
The emotional moment was soon shared on social media, giving fans a glimpse into the close bond between the championship leader and his family.
Antonelli's Special Birthday Surprise for His Father
The top three finishers were getting ready for the podium ceremony at Spa-Francorchamps, and TV cameras recorded Antonelli carefully writing on a bottle of champagne.
The message read: "Happy Birthday Dad"
He then added his signature to it and put it aside as a surprise for his father.
It was shared on social media, and fans were impressed by the young Italian's ability to remember his father's birthday on one of his biggest days.
Moments later, Antonelli hugged Marco in Parc Fermé before the two celebrated in a heartfelt manner after another historic win in the Mercedes driver's breakout campaign.
Who is Kimi Antonelli's Father Marco Antonelli?
Marco Antonelli has been a key figure in Kimi's career in Formula 1. He is a former racing driver and owner of AKM Motorsport, and he took his son to karting at a young age and helped him progress through the junior ranks.
Antonelli has been talking about the sacrifices his parents made to help him pursue his career, and Sunday's emotional celebration was a testament to the importance of family, even in the face of his meteoric Formula 1 career.
The Belgian Grand Prix win further consolidated Antonelli's lead in the Drivers' Championship, but it was his classy off-the-track gesture that was most pleasing to fans.
Typically, champagne is enjoyed with teammates and opponents, but Antonelli ensured that the first bottle had a much more personal significance.