Kimi Antonelli described his initial feelings in becoming Formula 1's youngest champion as something that will "live forever".
The 20-year-old Italian finished third at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez to smash the previous mark set by Sebastian Vettel by more than three years.
Antonelli joined two of the sport's greats, Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, on the podium at the end of 71 pulsating laps.
He also ends Italy's 73 years of F1 pain in waiting for its next champion.
"We did it, we did it," exclaimed Antonelli after stepping from the cockpit his Mercedes.
"Without Mercedes, without my family, I wouldn't be here, so I'm very grateful for this moment. It will live forever. I'm speechless. I'm trying to process what has just happened."
Pointed out to Antonelli that he had Verstappen and Hamilton on the podium with him, and whether that made it even more special, he replied: "Of course, of course!
"You know it's been an incredible season, and to share this podium with Max and Lewis is truly incredible. Looking forward to some more battles in the future."
Antonelli did concede to feeling "a bit more tense" this weekend, before concluding, "I'm just so happy that we got it done, and now we can enjoy the rest of the season."
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