Formula 1’s off-track drama often rivals its on-track action, and the recent Monaco Grand Prix proved no exception. Mercedes drivers Kimi Antonelli and George Russell have garnered significant attention with a humorous social media skit, playfully mocking American media personality Kim Kardashian after an incident involving Antonelli’s podium towel.

The viral towel incident

The lighthearted jab comes after Kardashian, attending her first race weekend since her relationship with Ferrari driver and seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton began, was seen taking a towel intended for Antonelli. Towels are traditionally left for the top three finishers to use before post-race ceremonies. The incident, which quickly circulated online, also followed a somewhat awkward encounter between Sky Sports commentator Martin Brundle and Kardashian, where her response to his questions was notably unenthusiastic.

In their viral response, Antonelli and Russell are seen in a skit, with Antonelli humorously searching for his missing item. “Hey, have you seen my towel?” Antonelli asks in the video, playing up the situation for laughs. The video, reported by GIVEMESPORT, quickly became a fan favorite, adding another layer to the celebrity spectacle surrounding the sport.

On-track dominance and celebrity spotlight

While the towel incident provided a moment of levity, Antonelli’s performance on the track was anything but. The young driver secured a dominant victory at the Monaco Grand Prix, marking his fifth win in just six races this season. This impressive run places him firmly at the top of the driver standings. The race itself was fraught with challenges, with seven drivers, including championship contenders Max Verstappen, Lando Norris, and Charles Leclerc, failing to finish.

Read also: Hamilton keeps pressure on Antonelli as Ferrari gives rookie his chance

Hamilton, meanwhile, finished second in Sunday’s race, securing his third podium finish of the 2026 season and maintaining his second position in the Drivers’ Championship. Kardashian’s presence at the iconic Circuit de Monaco undoubtedly brought increased media attention, a trend expected to continue when she supports Hamilton at his home race, the British Grand Prix, next month.

Read also: FIA announces new power unit changes for 2027 and 2028