Race and classic pictures

From the pitch to the paddock: Messi’s Sunday service

Things got a little "Messi" in the Mercedes garage on Sunday in Miami.

It turns out that when you’re winning three in a row, even one of the world’s greatest soccer players drops by to see what all the speed is about.

The G.O.A.T. himself, Lionel Messi, decided to swap the pitch for the paddock to drop in on the Brackley squad and congratulate Kimi Antonelli on a spectacular third consecutive victory.

While George Russell looked happy to share the spotlight, Antonelli seemed thrilled to get a winner's nod from a local legend who now puts his extraordinary footwork to good use with Inter Miami.

Whether it’s a perfectly placed free kick or a clinical apex, greatness recognizes greatness.

Michael Delaney

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