Kimi Antonelli Makes History as F1's Second Youngest Winner in China
Kimi Antonelli entered the world championship fight after he became Formula One's second youngest winner in history with victory at Sunday's Chinese Grand Prix. The 19-year-old Italian delivered a composed drive from pole position at the Shanghai International Circuit, dislodging Sebastian Vettel in the all-time list and entering the record books behind only Max Verstappen.
Hamilton's First Ferrari Podium
Lewis Hamilton claimed the first podium of his Ferrari career, finishing third in a fascinating duel with Charles Leclerc. This ended a 477-day wait for a podium and marked his first in Ferrari colours. Hamilton briefly led the race after clearing both Antonelli and George Russell at the first corner in his fast-starting Ferrari.
Race Highlights and Key Moments
Antonelli took advantage of Russell's gearbox glitch in qualifying to land his first pole. The race saw dramatic shifts, including a safety car period on lap 10 when Lance Stroll broke down in his Aston Martin. After the restart, Antonelli maintained his lead, while Hamilton rolled back the years, dancing through the field to assume second place before being overtaken by Leclerc.
The battle for the final podium spot intensified, with Hamilton and Leclerc swapping positions multiple times in a breathless duel. Hamilton ultimately held third, saying post-race, "This is actually quite a fun battle," as he celebrated his first podium finish since the Las Vegas Grand Prix in November 2024.
Other Notable Performances and Setbacks
George Russell finished runner-up, 5.5 seconds behind his Mercedes teammate Antonelli, a result that signals he will not have it all his own way in his bid for a maiden world crown. British driver Ollie Bearman, aged 20, impressed to finish fifth for Ferrari.
However, it was a nightmare day for McLaren, with world champion Lando Norris ruled out due to an electrical problem and Oscar Piastri failing to start because of a mechanical issue. Max Verstappen also did not finish, breaking down from sixth place with 10 laps remaining.
Antonelli's Emotional Victory
Up front, Antonelli faced a heart-in-mouth moment when he ran wide at the last but one corner with three laps to go, losing two seconds. But the Italian teenager held his nerve to take the spoils. An emotional Antonelli said, "You made me achieve one of my dreams. Thank you." His victory marks a significant milestone in his young career and sets the stage for an exciting championship battle ahead.
