Antonelli brought his Mercedes to a halt in the centre of the packed Foro Sol Stadium, leaping from the cockpit and into the embrace of his delighted parents and younger sister Maggie. "I think I lost probably two seconds because I was already crying," Antonelli revealed, when questioned about his thoughts. I couldn't see clearly ahead – and I could see two Ferraris somehow with the tears!

"A lot of memories went through my mind in that moment. All the memories since karting. So, it was a very special final lap and definitely, when I crossed the line, I let it all out because achieving one of my biggest dreams is very special. To be able to share this moment, to witness this moment with my whole family, with my team, and for my friends as well, it's a moment that will be always remembered."

The race win was claimed by Max Verstappen, with Lewis Hamilton finishing second, meaning Antonelli occupied the podium alongside two drivers who possess 11 world championships between them. There was a poignant moment as F1's latest champion stood amongst legends, Hamilton and Verstappen lifting the young Italian above their heads on the podium.

"I will definitely frame that picture and put it in my house, because it's just an incredible moment. It's great to see so much respect from two incredible drivers," Antonelli added. During his world champion's press conference, Antonelli became overwhelmed when questioned about Italian opera song Nessun Dorma playing as he celebrated in the stadium.

"It was very emotional for me because it was a song that my grandfather used to listen to always, so it was very special to hear that," he said, before breaking down in tears. "So I think that he would be very proud. Oh, my word. I cried too much today! I just felt very emotional because of my grandfather, so I was very happy also for him."

He attributes his success to his family for keeping him level-headed throughout his journey to F1 success, stating: "My dad, you know, has come to basically all the races this year... it has been crucial to have such a leader. And, my mum and my sister, when they could come, but especially my dad during the whole season, was very important because he was the one keeping me grounded, especially after very hard moments. He was the one that was always there when I was facing a difficult situation or I wasn't feeling the best."

"I'll stay with number 12 because obviously it's a very special number for me, but also it's a way for me to stay grounded, to stay humble," he explained. "I feel like by keeping number 12, it allows me to have a new point where to start and build on everything again and try to improve."

Antonelli will have little opportunity to mark his championship triumph, revealing he will spend the evening with his family, as F1 travels to Senna's homeland of Brazil next weekend. The Bologna-born driver does not consume alcohol but plans to commemorate his remarkable achievement in style following that race and prior to Las Vegas.

"Definitely when I will go back home, I will take time and I will organise something big," Antonelli said. " I've got to enjoy the moment. And then, of course, we're going to try to enjoy Brazil next week. Of course, it's a very special race coming up for many reasons. Probably I won't be in the best state in Vegas, but it's fine right? ! I'm going to enjoy the moment."