F1: Antonelli scores historic win in China

By Razeen Gutta

Kimi Antonelli, 19, made history on Sunday, winning his maiden grand prix in Shanghai with a stunning display of skill and composure.

The Italian driver, who became the youngest pole-sitter in Formula One history, held off Mercedes teammate George Russell to take the chequered flag by over five seconds.

Antonelli’s emotional victory was marked by a brief scare on his penultimate lap, but he recovered to secure the win.

“I’m speechless, I’m about to cry. Thank you to the team for helping me to achieve this dream,” he said, choking back tears, post-race.

Lewis Hamilton, who finished in third place, praised Antonelli’s achievement, saying, “I’m so honoured to share this moment with him.”

Antonelli replaced Hamilton at Mercedes after the seven-time world champion’s move to Ferrari; and it was fitting to see the duo on the podium together.

Mercedes secured a one-two finish, with Russell finishing second, while Charles Leclerc took fourth in the other Ferrari.

The win cuts Russell’s lead in the championship to four points.

McLaren endured a tough weekend, with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri failing to start due to separate issues. Red Bull also struggled, with Max Verstappen retiring on lap 46.

Pictured above: Kimi Antonelli

Source: @f1