Kimi Antonelli became the youngest driver to lead the Formula One world championship after winning the Japanese Grand Prix. The 19-year-old Italian, who took the flag after dropping from pole to sixth at the start, now tops the standings ahead of his Mercedes teammate George Russell.
Antonelli's victory was aided by a safety car triggered by a major crash involving British driver Oliver Bearman. Bearman sustained a 50G impact after swerving onto the grass to avoid Franco Colapinto at Spoon corner. The Haas driver was travelling at 190mph, while Colapinto was slower due to energy management, creating a closing speed of 31mph.
Bearman emerged with only bruising to his right knee, but the incident has raised serious questions about new regulations. The FIA acknowledged the severity and will hold meetings before the next round in Miami. Team principal Ayao Komatsu insisted neither Bearman nor Colapinto was at fault, noting the scenario had been warned about repeatedly.
Oscar Piastri finished second for McLaren, with Charles Leclerc third for Ferrari. Russell, who dropped from second to fourth at the start due to Mercedes' ongoing getaway issues, now trails Antonelli by nine points in the championship.
