The 2026 Chinese Grand Prix will forever be remembered as a pivotal moment in recent Formula 1 history. At just 19 years old, Kimi Antonelli secured his first-ever victory in the sport, delivering a stunning one-two finish for Mercedes ahead of his teammate George Russell. The Italian driver thus became the second youngest winner in F1 history, behind only Max Verstappen.
Antonelli quickly takes control
A departure under high tension
Having started from pole position after an already impressive weekend, Antonelli He knew he would be under immediate pressure from the start. Classic Ferrari for sale de Lewis Hamilton et Charles Leclerc have acted threateningly, and Hamilton briefly managed to get into the fight for the lead in the early laps.
But the young pilot Mercedes Benz He didn't panic. From the start of the race, he demonstrated remarkable composure for his age, quickly regaining control of the event and setting a solid pace.
« The car was fantastic today. The team did an incredible job all weekend., said Antonelli after the finish, visibly moved by this first career victory.
Mercedes dominates the race
Once established in the lead, Antonelli He gradually increased his lead over his pursuers. The celebration could have been spoiled, however, because with two laps to go, the young Italian briefly went off the track, losing two seconds to his rivals. A close call… which ultimately ended in victory.
His teammate George Russell secured second place, allowing Mercedes Benz to achieve a magnificent double on the Shanghai circuit.
Behind the Silver Arrows, Lewis Hamilton offered to Classic Ferrari for sale his first podium of the season by finishing third, after an intense battle with Charles Leclerc, ultimately fourth.
Russell praised the performance of his young teammate:
« Kimi was exceptional today. He made no mistakes and managed the race perfectly. It's a totally deserved victory.
A busy weekend for several teams
The race was also marked by several unfortunate events. McLaren lived through a real nightmare since Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri They didn't even start, victims of technical problems.
On the side of Red BullThe weekend turned into a disappointment. Max Verstappen, already highly critical after qualifying, failed to play leading roles and ultimately retired during the race.
Further down the rankings, several young drivers distinguished themselves: Oliver Bearman, Pierre Gasly or, Franco Colapinto managed to score points.
A victory that ushers in a new era
By crossing the finish line several seconds ahead of Russell, Antonelli offered Mercedes a magnificent double and confirmed his status as a new prodigy of the discipline.
This victory is also historic for Italy: This is the first victory for an Italian driver in F1 since Giancarlo Fisichella in 2006..
For AntonelliThis success could well mark the beginning of a new era in Formula 1At just 19 years old, the young Italian driver already seems ready to establish himself as one of the big names in the championship.
