Antonelli greeted by mother Veronica in Bologna but skips tagliatelle, thanks Sinner

Antonelli returns to Bologna after F1 win: mother’s tearful embrace and gratitude to Sinner

There was great emotion at Bologna Airport as Andrea Kimi Antonelli arrived back in Italy following his historic first victory in F1 at the Chinese Grand Prix. Awaiting him was his mother Veronica, visibly moved by the milestone achieved by the young Mercedes driver who also expressed thanks to Sinner.

Speaking to reporters at the airport, Antonelli’s mother struggled to hold back tears recalling the moment of victory. “What pride. I don’t know what I’m feeling anymore. It’s such a huge and beautiful thing, I can’t find the words,” she said with emotion.

Antonelli greeted by mother Veronica in Bologna but skips tagliatelle, thanks Sinner
Credits: Sky Sport F1

Mother Veronica welcomes Antonelli home in Bologna

The moment that affected her most was right after crossing the finish line, when Antonelli stepped out of his car visibly shaken. “I was calm, but when I saw him crying… I think he made everyone cry,” she added.

After the emotional moment, there was also some lightheartedness. When asked how she would celebrate her son’s return, Veronica joked about local culinary traditions. “No tagliatelle… I made gramigna!”, she smiled. It was a simple, familiar way to honor a result that has already made motorsport history in Italy.

Antonelli and Sinner’s message of support

Antonelli also spoke briefly to journalists upon landing in Bologna, sharing how touched he was by the many messages received following his success in China.

Antonelli welcomed by mother Veronica in Bologna but skips tagliatelle, thanks Sinner
Credits: Sky Sport
Among all the messages, one stood out. “Of all the messages I received, the one that touched me most was definitely the dedication from Sinner at Indian Wells,” the Mercedes driver explained. This refers to tennis champion Jannik Sinner, who dedicated his victory to the young Italian driver.

Antonelli’s return to Bologna marks a symbolic moment for the rising star, who has become a leading figure among Formula 1’s new generation with his win in China. His victory has reignited enthusiasm among Italian fans, bringing a tricolor driver back to the top step of motorsport’s highest category and opening a new chapter for Italian motorsport.