Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, aged 19, has been targeted with over 1,100 hateful messages including death threats following the recent Qatar Grand Prix. The young driver's Instagram profile was changed to an all-black image, reflecting the backlash he faced on social media.
Antonelli’s experience highlights the darker side of sports fandom, where intense emotions can escalate into unacceptable abuse. Reports confirm the scale of hostile communication aimed at the promising talent during this period.
“Kimi Antonelli has received more than 1,100 hateful messages including death threats after the Qatar Grand Prix.”
The incident raises important questions about athlete protection in the digital age and the responsibility of fans and platforms to maintain respectful interactions.
This situation reveals the urgent need to safeguard young athletes from online harassment, emphasizing the impact of social media negativity on mental health.