Formula One championship leader Kimi Antonelli continued his remarkable 2026 campaign by securing his fifth pole position of the season during qualifying for the British Grand Prix on Saturday. The 19-year-old Mercedes driver delivered a stunning final flying lap to edge out both Ferraris, with Charles Leclerc qualifying second and Lewis Hamilton third. Antonelli's Mercedes team-mate George Russell finished fourth, three-tenths of a second behind.&nbsp;Earlier in the day, Antonelli had already claimed victory in the sprint race ahead of Hamilton. The result leaves him 43 points ahead of Russell in the championship standings, with the opportunity to extend that advantage to 50 points if he converts pole into victory on Sunday. Antonelli has already taken victories this season in China, Japan, Miami, Canada and Monaco, showcasing his ability to perform across a variety of circuits and racing conditions.&nbsp;Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff praised the teenager's consistency and composure. "He just embraces it all and does it with a smile," said team boss Toto Wolff. "He is a pleasure to watch. He just gets faster and faster and he makes no mistakes. "He is really performing at a very high level considering it is only his second year. Despite Antonelli's impressive form, Wolff urged caution when discussing championship expectations. "Of course, he hasn’t won a world championship yet and we must think of the big picture, but he can be one of the great ones. We have to see."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-2nd-t20i-jacob-bethell-sam-curran-puncture-indian-hopes-as-england-take-series-lead-vaibhav-sooryavanshi-india-debut-manchester-1783186736675">2nd T20I: Bethell, Curran puncture Indian hopes as England take 1-0 series lead</a>&nbsp;Antonelli's pole position also denied Ferrari a breakthrough in qualifying, while extending Mercedes' unbeaten run to nine qualifying sessions this season. Reflecting on his performance, Antonelli acknowledged the challenge ahead. "It wasn't straightforward today and the start was tricky. For sure, it’s not going to be easy," said a rapidly-maturing and humble Antonelli."I have two Ferraris behind me and for sure they will work together. Their pace is good, but ours was stronger in the sprint so hopefully we can do a good race."&nbsp;Leclerc welcomed his return to the front after a difficult spell. "It's been a few tough races," added. “The feeling has been not quite right and I've struggled to put everything together, so it's a good feeling to be back.” Hamilton admitted Ferrari simply lacked the pace to challenge Mercedes in qualifying. "Am I satisfied? Of course not! I'm P3. But I am happy to be up here with these guys who both did a great job. We just didn't have the pace today against the Mercedes.&nbsp;“Hopefully we can play with our strategy and work as a team to try and topple them. We will do our best for sure.” Russell, fresh from his Austrian Grand Prix victory, recovered from an early Q1 scare to qualify fourth. Red Bull junior Isack Hadjar impressed with fifth place, finishing ahead of senior team driver Max Verstappen, who could only manage seventh. Defending champion Lando Norris qualified sixth for McLaren, while Oscar Piastri finished eighth. Racing Bulls drivers Arvid Lindblad and Liam Lawson completed the top ten.

Kimi Antonelli secured his fifth pole of the 2026 Formula One season for the British Grand Prix, leading Ferrari duo Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton

Formula One championship leader Kimi Antonelli continued his remarkable 2026 campaign by securing his fifth pole position of the season during qualifying for the British Grand Prix on Saturday. The 19-year-old Mercedes driver delivered a stunning final flying lap to edge out both Ferraris, with Charles Leclerc qualifying second and Lewis Hamilton third. Antonelli's Mercedes team-mate George Russell finished fourth, three-tenths of a second behind. Earlier in the day, Antonelli had already claimed victory in the sprint race ahead of Hamilton. The result leaves him 43 points ahead of Russell in the championship standings, with the opportunity to extend that advantage to 50 points if he converts pole into victory on Sunday. Antonelli has already taken victories this season in China, Japan, Miami, Canada and Monaco, showcasing his ability to perform across a variety of circuits and racing conditions. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff praised the teenager's consistency and composure. "He just embraces it all and does it with a smile," said team boss Toto Wolff. "He is a pleasure to watch. He just gets faster and faster and he makes no mistakes. "He is really performing at a very high level considering it is only his second year. Despite Antonelli's impressive form, Wolff urged caution when discussing championship expectations. "Of course, he hasn’t won a world championship yet and we must think of the big picture, but he can be one of the great ones. We have to see." Also Read: 2nd T20I: Bethell, Curran puncture Indian hopes as England take 1-0 series lead Antonelli's pole position also denied Ferrari a breakthrough in qualifying, while extending Mercedes' unbeaten run to nine qualifying sessions this season. Reflecting on his performance, Antonelli acknowledged the challenge ahead. "It wasn't straightforward today and the start was tricky. For sure, it’s not going to be easy," said a rapidly-maturing and humble Antonelli. "I have two Ferraris behind me and for sure they will work together. Their pace is good, but ours was stronger in the sprint so hopefully we can do a good race." Leclerc welcomed his return to the front after a difficult spell. "It's been a few tough races," added. “The feeling has been not quite right and I've struggled to put everything together, so it's a good feeling to be back.” Hamilton admitted Ferrari simply lacked the pace to challenge Mercedes in qualifying. "Am I satisfied? Of course not! I'm P3. But I am happy to be up here with these guys who both did a great job. We just didn't have the pace today against the Mercedes. “Hopefully we can play with our strategy and work as a team to try and topple them. We will do our best for sure.” Russell, fresh from his Austrian Grand Prix victory, recovered from an early Q1 scare to qualify fourth. Red Bull junior Isack Hadjar impressed with fifth place, finishing ahead of senior team driver Max Verstappen, who could only manage seventh. Defending champion Lando Norris qualified sixth for McLaren, while Oscar Piastri finished eighth. Racing Bulls drivers Arvid Lindblad and Liam Lawson completed the top ten.

Kimi Antonelli claimed his fifth pole of the 2026 F1 season for the British GP, beating Ferrari as Mercedes stayed unbeaten in qualifying

British Grand Prix: Kimi Antonelli beats Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton to clinch pole

Italian teenager Kimi Antonelli continued his spectacular early-season romp on Sunday when he claimed his fourth straight win for Mercedes to extend his lead in the drivers world championship to 43 points in a thrilling Canadian Grand Prix. His win made him the first driver in F1 history to secure his first four wins in succession thanks, in part, to the retirement of team-mate George Russell with a power failure after the pair had battled through the first half of the race. The 19-year-old Italian came home 10.768 seconds clear of Ferrari’s seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2026-iran-shift-training-camp-from-us-to-mexico-ahead-of-kickoff-1779613999747">FIFA World Cup 2026: Iran shift training camp from US to Mexico ahead of kickoff</a>The Briton secured his tenth Canadian podium and the 204th of his career after resisting four-time champion Max Verstappen of Red Bull, who claimed his first podium of the season."It was a really fun battle with George," said Antonelli."We were pretty much on the limit. It was not easy today. It was a shame for George to have the failure because it would have been a very cool battle, but I'll take it."Hamilton, who took his maiden victory in Montreal in 2007 and shares the record of seven wins there with Michael Schumacher, was delighted and hugged Antonelli who succeeded him at Mercedes."Finally, we found our sweet spot and had a good weekend. It's amazing to be back up here and I got to have a battle with Max, which was great. I am so happy, I love this track," said Hamilton."I had some cool battles," said Verstappen. "It is better to race up front. And it is really cool to have our first podium and to battle with Lewis. All really positive."Charles Leclerc came home fourth for Ferrari ahead of Isack Hadjar in the second Red Bull, Franco Colapinto of Alpine and Racing Bulls’ Liam Lawson. Pierre Gasly was eighth for Alpine ahead of Williams’ Carlos Sainz and Oliver Bearman of Haas.<h2>McLaren misery</h2>It was a dismal day for champions McLaren who made an error in tyre selection pre-race and then saw Oscar Piastri finish 11th while world champion Lando Norris retired with a gearbox failure.The race began in cold, damp and drizzly conditions with a temperature of 12 degrees and the teams divided on tyre choice.Both McLarens and five others gambled on intermediates while Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull and five others chose softs and four picked mediums.At the start, Arvid Lindblad failed to find a gear, leading to an aborted start and two extra formation laps before the lights went out -- and Norris from third flew past a cautious-starting Russell on pole to snatch the lead.Norris led and then pitted to ditch his 'inters' as did Piastri and the rest while Antonelli inherited the lead, chased by a recovered Russell and Hamilton.Russell forced his way past Antonelli at the back chicane on lap six, where the young Italian skated across a run-off to rejoin. It set up a thrilling battle at the head of the field.At the front, Antonelli regained the lead on lap 12, briefly, but it was clear the young Italian had the pace to hound, if not pass, the Briton as they delivered a riveting spectacle of wheel-to-wheel racing.Antonelli tried to pass Russell on lap 19, but was rebuffed. They scrapped again on lap 21 before Antonelli retook the lead on lap 22 at the chicane.Two laps later, he locked up and Russell regained the lead before they banged wheels again, the precocious Italian stealing in front at the hairpin, but he went off. He handed the place back.As they scrapped, Piastri was handed a 10-second penalty for colliding with Alex Albon’s Williams, another blow on a wretched weekend for McLaren before, on lap 30, Russell pulled up and retired with a power-unit failure.It was Russell’s first 'did not finish’ in 38 races since the 2024 British Grand Prix."Everything went off, the engine and the electronics. The lot,” said Russell. "I’m lost for words."A Virtual Safety Car (VSC) was deployed with Antonelli back in the lead before pitting, like the rest, for mediums. On resumption, he led from Verstappen by 4.5 seconds with Hamilton third ahead of Hadjar and Leclerc.With Russell gone, it was back to 'normal' racing – and Hamilton’s pursuit of a podium – spiced up by Leclerc taking fourth and more McLaren misery on lap 40 when Norris retired with a gearbox issue.

His win made him the first driver in F1 history to secure his first four wins in succession thanks, in part, to the retirement of team-mate George Russell with a power failure after the pair had battled through the first half of the race.

Italian teenager Kimi Antonelli continued his spectacular early-season romp on Sunday when he claimed his fourth straight win for Mercedes to extend his lead in the drivers world championship to 43 points in a thrilling Canadian Grand Prix. His win made him the first driver in F1 history to secure his first four wins in succession thanks, in part, to the retirement of team-mate George Russell with a power failure after the pair had battled through the first half of the race. The 19-year-old Italian came home 10.768 seconds clear of Ferrari’s seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton. Also Read - FIFA World Cup 2026: Iran shift training camp from US to Mexico ahead of kickoff The Briton secured his tenth Canadian podium and the 204th of his career after resisting four-time champion Max Verstappen of Red Bull, who claimed his first podium of the season. "It was a really fun battle with George," said Antonelli. "We were pretty much on the limit. It was not easy today. It was a shame for George to have the failure because it would have been a very cool battle, but I'll take it." Hamilton, who took his maiden victory in Montreal in 2007 and shares the record of seven wins there with Michael Schumacher, was delighted and hugged Antonelli who succeeded him at Mercedes. "Finally, we found our sweet spot and had a good weekend. It's amazing to be back up here and I got to have a battle with Max, which was great. I am so happy, I love this track," said Hamilton. "I had some cool battles," said Verstappen. "It is better to race up front. And it is really cool to have our first podium and to battle with Lewis. All really positive." Charles Leclerc came home fourth for Ferrari ahead of Isack Hadjar in the second Red Bull, Franco Colapinto of Alpine and Racing Bulls’ Liam Lawson. Pierre Gasly was eighth for Alpine ahead of Williams’ Carlos Sainz and Oliver Bearman of Haas. McLaren misery It was a dismal day for champions McLaren who made an error in tyre selection pre-race and then saw Oscar Piastri finish 11th while world champion Lando Norris retired with a gearbox failure. The race began in cold, damp and drizzly conditions with a temperature of 12 degrees and the teams divided on tyre choice. Both McLarens and five others gambled on intermediates while Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull and five others chose softs and four picked mediums. At the start, Arvid Lindblad failed to find a gear, leading to an aborted start and two extra formation laps before the lights went out -- and Norris from third flew past a cautious-starting Russell on pole to snatch the lead. Norris led and then pitted to ditch his 'inters' as did Piastri and the rest while Antonelli inherited the lead, chased by a recovered Russell and Hamilton. Russell forced his way past Antonelli at the back chicane on lap six, where the young Italian skated across a run-off to rejoin. It set up a thrilling battle at the head of the field. At the front, Antonelli regained the lead on lap 12, briefly, but it was clear the young Italian had the pace to hound, if not pass, the Briton as they delivered a riveting spectacle of wheel-to-wheel racing. Antonelli tried to pass Russell on lap 19, but was rebuffed. They scrapped again on lap 21 before Antonelli retook the lead on lap 22 at the chicane. Two laps later, he locked up and Russell regained the lead before they banged wheels again, the precocious Italian stealing in front at the hairpin, but he went off. He handed the place back. As they scrapped, Piastri was handed a 10-second penalty for colliding with Alex Albon’s Williams, another blow on a wretched weekend for McLaren before, on lap 30, Russell pulled up and retired with a power-unit failure. It was Russell’s first 'did not finish’ in 38 races since the 2024 British Grand Prix. "Everything went off, the engine and the electronics. The lot,” said Russell. "I’m lost for words." A Virtual Safety Car (VSC) was deployed with Antonelli back in the lead before pitting, like the rest, for mediums. On resumption, he led from Verstappen by 4.5 seconds with Hamilton third ahead of Hadjar and Leclerc. With Russell gone, it was back to 'normal' racing – and Hamilton’s pursuit of a podium – spiced up by Leclerc taking fourth and more McLaren misery on lap 40 when Norris retired with a gearbox issue.

His win made him the first driver in F1 history to secure his first four wins in succession thanks, in part, to the retirement of team-mate George Russell with a power failure after the pair had battled through the first half of the race.

F1 2026: Mercedes' Antonelli wins Canadian GP for fourth consecutive race victory

Mercedes' 19-year-old Italian Formula 1 driver Kimi Antonelli continues to impress - this time by winning Miami Grand Prix on Sunday (May 3) in a hard-fought battle with defending champion Lando Norris. Antonelli, who has been compared to superstar Italian tennis player Jannik Sinner by Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, currently leads the F1 2026 drivers' leaderboard by 20 points ahead of his Mercedes teammate George Russell. This is also the third consecutive race win for the teenager after winning last two races in Chinese GP (Mar 15) and Japanese GP (Mar 29). Antonelli, racing in his second season only, also had finished second in the 2026 season opener Australian GP (Mar 8) and has 100 points so far.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-man-utd-league-double-liverpool-for-first-time-in-decade-confirm-champions-league-qualification-1777827110644">Premier League: Man Utd league double Liverpool for first time in decade</a><h2>Why Antonelli was compared to Sinner by Mercedes boss Wolff?</h2>In a heartwarming coincidence, on days of Antonelli's F1 victories in China, Japan, and Miami, Italian tennis superstar Sinner also won his ATP Masters tournament, that is, Indian Wells, Miami, and Madrid Open, respectively. With Italy failing to qualify for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, the fans got to cherish the victories to two Italian sporting icons and Wolff was not shy of comparing the two."Now that they are not qualified for football, it’s all about Sinner and Antonelli, and Antonelli and Sinner. Sinner won in Madrid, so it’s the two that are superstars," said the F1 team boss.<h2>How Antonelli is winning the F1 races easily?</h2>Speaking on the teenager's performance, Wolff said: "We’ve given him a car that is very good, and an engine that is right but how he’s been able to monetise on that every single weekend is special.""It seems like a lot of the speed has always been there, everything is chipping away at the finer details. It’s easier to slow someone, calm someone down that is wild because you won’t be able to accelerate a donkey, so for me that was his best race so far. It reminds me of his karting days or Formula 4, there were no mistakes today, he added.<h2>F1 2026 - Miami Grand Prix result</h2><ol><li>Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes)</li><li>Lando Norris (McLaren)</li><li>Oscar Piastri (McLaren)</li><li>George Russell (Mercedes)</li><li>Max Verstappen (Red Bull)</li><li>Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari)</li><li>Franco Colapinto (Alpine)</li><li>Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)</li><li>Carlos Sainz Jr. (Williams)</li><li>Alex Albon (Williams)</li></ol>

Antonelli, racing in his second season only, currently has 100 points so far and sits atop the drivers' leaderboard.

Mercedes' 19-year-old Italian Formula 1 driver Kimi Antonelli continues to impress - this time by winning Miami Grand Prix on Sunday (May 3) in a hard-fought battle with defending champion Lando Norris. Antonelli, who has been compared to superstar Italian tennis player Jannik Sinner by Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, currently leads the F1 2026 drivers' leaderboard by 20 points ahead of his Mercedes teammate George Russell. This is also the third consecutive race win for the teenager after winning last two races in Chinese GP (Mar 15) and Japanese GP (Mar 29). Antonelli, racing in his second season only, also had finished second in the 2026 season opener Australian GP (Mar 8) and has 100 points so far. Also Read - Premier League: Man Utd league double Liverpool for first time in decade Why Antonelli was compared to Sinner by Mercedes boss Wolff? In a heartwarming coincidence, on days of Antonelli's F1 victories in China, Japan, and Miami, Italian tennis superstar Sinner also won his ATP Masters tournament, that is, Indian Wells, Miami, and Madrid Open, respectively. With Italy failing to qualify for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, the fans got to cherish the victories to two Italian sporting icons and Wolff was not shy of comparing the two. "Now that they are not qualified for football, it’s all about Sinner and Antonelli, and Antonelli and Sinner. Sinner won in Madrid, so it’s the two that are superstars," said the F1 team boss. How Antonelli is winning the F1 races easily? Speaking on the teenager's performance, Wolff said: "We’ve given him a car that is very good, and an engine that is right but how he’s been able to monetise on that every single weekend is special." "It seems like a lot of the speed has always been there, everything is chipping away at the finer details. It’s easier to slow someone, calm someone down that is wild because you won’t be able to accelerate a donkey, so for me that was his best race so far. It reminds me of his karting days or Formula 4, there were no mistakes today, he added. F1 2026 - Miami Grand Prix result Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) Lando Norris (McLaren) Oscar Piastri (McLaren) George Russell (Mercedes) Max Verstappen (Red Bull) Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) Franco Colapinto (Alpine) Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) Carlos Sainz Jr. (Williams) Alex Albon (Williams)

Antonelli, racing in his second season only, also had finished second in the 2026 season opener Australian GP (Mar 8) before winning Chinese GP, Japanese GP, and Miami GP. He currently has 100 points so far and sits atop the drivers' leaderboard.

F1 2026 | 'All about Sinner and Antonelli': How Mercedes' 19-year-old Italian driver is lightning up ongoing season

Kimi Antonelli claimed an emotional maiden victory at the Chinese Grand Prix on Sunday (Mar 15), finishing ahead of his teammate George Russell, while Lewis Hamilton came third to secure his first podium for Ferrari. With the win, Antonelli became the second-youngest race winner in Formula One history. At 19 years, six months and 18 days, he is only behind Max Verstappen, who won the Spanish Grand Prix in 2016 at the age of 18 years, seven months and 15 days.&nbsp;Antonelli had already made history on Saturday (Mar 14) by becoming the youngest pole-sitter in Formula One and converted that pole position into victory after both McLaren cars failed to start the race in Shanghai.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-letting-shreyas-iyer-and-phil-salt-leave-anil-kumble-on-kkr-s-ipl-retention-calls-1773570620739">‘Letting Shreyas Iyer and Phil Salt leave...’: Anil Kumble on KKR’s IPL retention calls</a>&nbsp;At the beginning of the race, Antonelli briefly lost the lead, however, once he moved back to the front, he managed the race well and comfortably drove to victory. Charles Leclerc finished fourth for Ferrari.Hamilton also made a great start and had taken the lead by the time the teams emerged from the first complex of turns.&nbsp;The Italian driver also became the first winner from Italy in Formula One since Giancarlo Fisichella won the Malaysian Grand Prix in 2006.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1-cancel-bahrain-and-saudi-arabian-grands-prix-amid-west-asia-conflict-1773568483747">Formula 1 cancel Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix amid West Asia conflict</a>&nbsp;Leclerc also launched brilliantly and managed to get past Russell, who started second on the grid.The top four swapped places multiple times before a safety car on lap 11 brought them all into the pits.Once the dust settled and they went racing again, Antonelli led from Hamilton, with Leclerc third and Russell fourth.&nbsp;By lap 29 Russell had got past both Ferraris and up to second and set off trying to catch his young Italian teammate, who was by now more then seven seconds up the road.&nbsp;Four-time world champion Max Verstappen continued Red Bull's poor start to the new season when he was told to retire his car on lap 46. Antonelli was in tears at the end as he soaked up victory.<h2>Youngest race winners in F1 history</h2><ul><li>Max Verstappen - 18 years, seven months and 15 days</li><li>Kimi Antonelli - 19 years, six months and 18 days</li><li>Sebastian Vettel - 21 years, two months and 11 days</li><li>Charles Leclerc - 21 years, 10 months and 16 days</li><li>Fernando Alonso - 22 years, 26 days</li></ul>&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Antonelli had already made history on Saturday (Mar 15)  by becoming the youngest pole-sitter in Formula One and converted that pole position into victory after both McLaren cars failed to start the race in Shanghai.

Kimi Antonelli claimed an emotional maiden victory at the Chinese Grand Prix on Sunday (Mar 15), finishing ahead of his teammate George Russell, while Lewis Hamilton came third to secure his first podium for Ferrari. With the win, Antonelli became the second-youngest race winner in Formula One history. At 19 years, six months and 18 days, he is only behind Max Verstappen, who won the Spanish Grand Prix in 2016 at the age of 18 years, seven months and 15 days. Antonelli had already made history on Saturday (Mar 14) by becoming the youngest pole-sitter in Formula One and converted that pole position into victory after both McLaren cars failed to start the race in Shanghai. Also Read - ‘Letting Shreyas Iyer and Phil Salt leave...’: Anil Kumble on KKR’s IPL retention calls At the beginning of the race, Antonelli briefly lost the lead, however, once he moved back to the front, he managed the race well and comfortably drove to victory. Charles Leclerc finished fourth for Ferrari. Hamilton also made a great start and had taken the lead by the time the teams emerged from the first complex of turns. The Italian driver also became the first winner from Italy in Formula One since Giancarlo Fisichella won the Malaysian Grand Prix in 2006. Also Read - Formula 1 cancel Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix amid West Asia conflict Leclerc also launched brilliantly and managed to get past Russell, who started second on the grid. The top four swapped places multiple times before a safety car on lap 11 brought them all into the pits. Once the dust settled and they went racing again, Antonelli led from Hamilton, with Leclerc third and Russell fourth. By lap 29 Russell had got past both Ferraris and up to second and set off trying to catch his young Italian teammate, who was by now more then seven seconds up the road. Four-time world champion Max Verstappen continued Red Bull's poor start to the new season when he was told to retire his car on lap 46. Antonelli was in tears at the end as he soaked up victory. Youngest race winners in F1 history Max Verstappen - 18 years, seven months and 15 days Kimi Antonelli - 19 years, six months and 18 days Sebastian Vettel - 21 years, two months and 11 days Charles Leclerc - 21 years, 10 months and 16 days Fernando Alonso - 22 years, 26 days With inputs from agencies

Antonelli had already made history on Saturday (Mar 14) by becoming the youngest pole-sitter in Formula One and converted that pole position into victory after both McLaren cars failed to start the race in Shanghai.

Kimi Antonelli sets record as F1’s second-youngest race winner

Kimi Antonelli made history on Saturday (Mar 14) by becoming the youngest driver to take pole position for a full Formula One Grand Prix. The 19-year-old Mercedes driver set the fastest lap in qualifying at the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai. His lap was 0.222 seconds faster than his teammate George Russell, giving Mercedes the top two spots on the starting grid for Sunday’s race. Antonelli broke the previous record held by Sebastian Vettel, who was 21 when he earned his first pole position in 2008.&nbsp;Lewis Hamilton qualified third for Ferrari, while Charles Leclerc will start fourth. This result gives Mercedes a strong advantage heading into the race and marks an impressive milestone early in Antonelli’s Formula One career.&nbsp;Russell finished second despite facing problems in the final qualifying session. His car briefly lost battery power and gears, forcing him to stop on the track before returning to the pit lane. The Mercedes team quickly fixed the issue, allowing him to complete a fast lap and secure a front-row start.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-cricket-board-set-to-take-legal-action-over-blessing-muzarabani-s-psl-exit-to-join-indian-premier-league-1773483441730">Pakistan Cricket Board set to take legal action over Blessing Muzarabani’s PSL exit to join Indian Premier League</a>&nbsp;Antonelli’s pole lap was one of the key moments of the session, as he stayed calm under pressure and delivered a strong performance. It also added to Mercedes’ successful weekend, after Russell had earlier won the Sprint race in Shanghai.&nbsp;Ferrari also showed good pace, with Hamilton in third and Leclerc in fourth. McLaren drivers Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris qualified fifth and sixth. Pierre Gasly placed seventh for Alpine, ahead of Max Verstappen of Red Bull in eighth. Verstappen had a difficult session, while his teammate Isack Hadjar finished ninth. Haas driver Oliver Bearman rounded out the top ten.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/life-after-cricket-ashes-hero-england-mark-wood-hints-at-retirement-amid-knee-injury-recovery-1773478777893">‘Life after Cricket’: Ashes hero Wood hints at retirement amid injury recovery</a><h3>Chinese Grand Prix: Qualifying Results</h3><ul><li>Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) - 1:32.064</li><li>George Russell (Mercedes) - 1:32.286</li><li>Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) - 1:32.415</li><li>Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) - 1:32.428</li><li>Oscar Piastri (McLaren) - 1:32.550</li><li>Lando Norris (McLaren) - 1:32.608</li><li>Pierre Gasly (Alpine) - 1:32.873</li><li>Max Verstappen (Red Bull) - 1:33.002</li><li>Isack Hadjar (Red Bull) - 1:33.121</li><li>Oliver Bearman (Haas) - 1:33.292</li></ul>With inputs from agencies

Kimi Antonelli broke the previous record held by Sebastian Vettel, who was 21 when he earned his first pole position in 2008.

Kimi Antonelli made history on Saturday (Mar 14) by becoming the youngest driver to take pole position for a full Formula One Grand Prix. The 19-year-old Mercedes driver set the fastest lap in qualifying at the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai. His lap was 0.222 seconds faster than his teammate George Russell, giving Mercedes the top two spots on the starting grid for Sunday’s race. Antonelli broke the previous record held by Sebastian Vettel, who was 21 when he earned his first pole position in 2008. Lewis Hamilton qualified third for Ferrari, while Charles Leclerc will start fourth. This result gives Mercedes a strong advantage heading into the race and marks an impressive milestone early in Antonelli’s Formula One career. Russell finished second despite facing problems in the final qualifying session. His car briefly lost battery power and gears, forcing him to stop on the track before returning to the pit lane. The Mercedes team quickly fixed the issue, allowing him to complete a fast lap and secure a front-row start. Also Read - Pakistan Cricket Board set to take legal action over Blessing Muzarabani’s PSL exit to join Indian Premier League Antonelli’s pole lap was one of the key moments of the session, as he stayed calm under pressure and delivered a strong performance. It also added to Mercedes’ successful weekend, after Russell had earlier won the Sprint race in Shanghai. Ferrari also showed good pace, with Hamilton in third and Leclerc in fourth. McLaren drivers Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris qualified fifth and sixth. Pierre Gasly placed seventh for Alpine, ahead of Max Verstappen of Red Bull in eighth. Verstappen had a difficult session, while his teammate Isack Hadjar finished ninth. Haas driver Oliver Bearman rounded out the top ten. Also Read - ‘Life after Cricket’: Ashes hero Wood hints at retirement amid injury recovery Chinese Grand Prix: Qualifying Results Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) - 1:32.064 George Russell (Mercedes) - 1:32.286 Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) - 1:32.415 Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) - 1:32.428 Oscar Piastri (McLaren) - 1:32.550 Lando Norris (McLaren) - 1:32.608 Pierre Gasly (Alpine) - 1:32.873 Max Verstappen (Red Bull) - 1:33.002 Isack Hadjar (Red Bull) - 1:33.121 Oliver Bearman (Haas) - 1:33.292 With inputs from agencies

Kimi Antonelli broke the previous record held by Sebastian Vettel, who was 21 when he earned his first pole position in 2008.

Chinese GP: Kimi Antonelli sets new record as youngest pole sitter

In what was a decisive weekend in the Formula One 2025 season, championship leader Lando Norris is now on the edge as he battles to lift his maiden title. Holding on to the top spot, Norris will head into the Abu Dhabi GP with a 12-point lead, meaning he needs a podium finish to seal his maiden title. That lead could have been down to 10 points had Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli held on to fourth place. Antonelli faced online abuse, particularly by Red Bull fans, as it could have resulted advantage for Max Verstappen heading into the final race of the season.<h2>What was the issue?</h2>In the penultimate lap of the Qatar GP, Norris overtook Antonelli for the fourth spot, meaning the Championship leader finished with 408 points heading into the final race rather than 406 points. Meaning Max Verstappen would have needed to overcome only a 10-point deficit to win his maiden title. Red Bull fans were seen abusing the Italian driver for allowing Norris to take over. However, Red Bull has cleared their stance and claimed there was no foul play, which allowed the championship leader an extra two points.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Red Bull said in a statement: "Comments made before the end of and immediately after the Qatar GP, suggesting that Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli had deliberately allowed Lando Norris to overtake him, are clearly incorrect.&nbsp;"Replay footage shows Antonelli momentarily losing control of his car, thus allowing Norris to pass him. We sincerely regret that this has led to Kimi receiving online abuse."The statement from Red Bull means Antonelli’s matter is already put to rest as they now focus on the final race in Abu Dhabi.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a><h2>How can Max Verstappen win Formula 2025 title?</h2>Verstappen, who looked down and out a few weeks ago in the title race, is now back in the title race, but will need a favour to lift a fifth consecutive title. Verstappen needs to overcome a 12-point deficit to win the title in the final race. Realistically, Verstappen needs to win the Abu Dhabi GP and hope Norris finishes fourth or lower to seal the title.In case Vertsappen fails to win, he needs to overcome a 12-point deficit to win the title while also hoping Piastri does to overtake him in the standings.

In the penultimate lap of the Qatar GP, Lando Norris overtook Kimi Antonelli for the fourth spot, meaning the Championship leader finished with 408 points heading into the final race rather than 406 points.

In what was a decisive weekend in the Formula One 2025 season, championship leader Lando Norris is now on the edge as he battles to lift his maiden title. Holding on to the top spot, Norris will head into the Abu Dhabi GP with a 12-point lead, meaning he needs a podium finish to seal his maiden title. That lead could have been down to 10 points had Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli held on to fourth place. Antonelli faced online abuse, particularly by Red Bull fans, as it could have resulted advantage for Max Verstappen heading into the final race of the season. What was the issue? In the penultimate lap of the Qatar GP, Norris overtook Antonelli for the fourth spot, meaning the Championship leader finished with 408 points heading into the final race rather than 406 points. Meaning Max Verstappen would have needed to overcome only a 10-point deficit to win his maiden title. Red Bull fans were seen abusing the Italian driver for allowing Norris to take over. However, Red Bull has cleared their stance and claimed there was no foul play, which allowed the championship leader an extra two points. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Red Bull said in a statement: "Comments made before the end of and immediately after the Qatar GP, suggesting that Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli had deliberately allowed Lando Norris to overtake him, are clearly incorrect. "Replay footage shows Antonelli momentarily losing control of his car, thus allowing Norris to pass him. We sincerely regret that this has led to Kimi receiving online abuse." The statement from Red Bull means Antonelli’s matter is already put to rest as they now focus on the final race in Abu Dhabi. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes How can Max Verstappen win Formula 2025 title? Verstappen, who looked down and out a few weeks ago in the title race, is now back in the title race, but will need a favour to lift a fifth consecutive title. Verstappen needs to overcome a 12-point deficit to win the title in the final race. Realistically, Verstappen needs to win the Abu Dhabi GP and hope Norris finishes fourth or lower to seal the title. In case Vertsappen fails to win, he needs to overcome a 12-point deficit to win the title while also hoping Piastri does to overtake him in the standings.

In the penultimate lap of the Qatar GP, Lando Norris overtook Kimi Antonelli for the fourth spot, meaning the Championship leader finished with 408 points heading into the final race rather than 406 points.

Red Bull respond over Antonelli online abuse for letting Norris take fourth spot, say 'we sincerely regret'

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Red Bull respond over Antonelli online abuse for letting Norris take fourth spot