Kimi Antonelli gets emotional as San Siro crowd chants his name during Italy-France match

Formula 1 world champion Andrea Kimi Antonelli received an emotional standing ovation at San Siro Stadium in Milan on November 12, 2026, during Italy's UEFA Nations League match against France. More than 70,000 spectators attended the game, and when the 20-year-old Mercedes driver's face appeared on the stadium's giant screens, fans rose to applaud and began chanting his name.Antonelli appeared visibly overwhelmed by the reception. He stood up, smiled, waved to the crowd and looked around the stadium as supporters continued cheering. Footage captured him appearing close to tears and mouthing “wow” in response to the unexpected tribute. The celebration took place during the match's halftime interval.The Italian driver had recently secured the 2026 Formula 1 Drivers' Championship with Mercedes, becoming the youngest world champion in the sport's history at age 20. His achievement ended Italy's 73-year wait for another Formula 1 drivers' title, following Alberto Ascari's championships in 1952 and 1953. Antonelli attended the match alongside Italian sports official Giovanni Malagò and received a personalized Italy jersey.