Italian rider, Kimi Antonelli has surprised everyone with his first Formula One victory at the China F1 2026. The 19-year-old Mercedes driver was able to turn around his pole position and win at the Shanghai International Circuit. This makes Antonelli the second youngest driver in F1 history to win the race. George Russell and Lewis Hamilton
Antonelli briefly lost the lead at the start but regained control after passing Lewis Hamilton, who had moved ahead in the opening laps. From then on, the young Italian drove calmly, holding off teammate George Russell and Ferrari’s Hamilton to secure the checkered flag. “Thank you very much to my team because they have helped me achieve this dream,” Antonelli said, looking very emotional after the race.
His victory was celebrated by Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, who had confidently promoted Antonelli to replace Hamilton in 2025 despite his limited experience. The win also ended Italy’s long wait to win a major tournament, last achieved by Giancarlo Fisichella two decades ago.
The revival of Hamilton’s Ferrari
Hamilton, who now drives for Ferrari, won his first podium with the team after a fierce battle with teammate Charles Leclerc, who finished fourth. The seven-time champion appeared to be in high spirits, fighting fiercely and reminding fans of his competitive edge. “I’m very happy with the session. Mercedes have done a great job, but we’re working hard to close the gap,” Hamilton said.
Drama In The Grid
The race was full of drama, with the McLarens – Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri – unable to start due to engine problems. Red Bull’s Max Verstappen endured another tough weekend, retiring on lap 46 after dropping down the order. Behind the leaders, Ollie Bearman took fifth for Haas, while Pierre Gasly took sixth for Alpine.
Antonelli’s win puts him just four points behind Russell in the championship standings, underscoring his growing status as a genuine title contender.
Top 10
1. Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes)
2. George Russell (Mercedes)
3. Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari)
4. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)
5. Oliver Bearman (Haas)
6. Pierre Gasly (Alpine)
7. Liam Lawson (Cow Race)
8. Isaac Hadjar (Red Bull)
9. Carlos Sainz (Williams)
10. Franco Colapinto (Alpine)
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