Kimi is the best at the Chinese Grand Prix - Photo:Depositphotos

Andrea Kimi Antonelli announced himself on the biggest stage in motorsport with a maiden victory for Mercedes at the Chinese Grand Prix. The young Italian star secured his first win in Formula 1, delivering a historic moment for his country - Italy’s first triumph in the championship since 2006.

Starting from pole position, Kimi Antonelli initially lost the lead to a fast-starting Ferrari driver into the opening corners. However, the Mercedes rookie quickly regrouped, reclaiming the lead early in the race with a decisive move and controlling the pace for the remainder of the Grand Prix.

From that moment on, Antonelli looked composed and confident beyond his years, managing the race perfectly to keep his rivals behind. He eventually crossed the finish line ahead of his teammate George Russell, sealing a dominant one-two result for Mercedes.

The fight for the final podium place delivered another headline: Lewis Hamilton secured third place for Ferrari, beating teammate Charles Leclerc in a tense battle. The result marked Hamilton’s first podium finish since joining the iconic Italian team.

Meanwhile, reigning champion Max Verstappen endured a frustrating afternoon. The Red Bull driver fought his way from the midfield into the points and appeared on course for a strong finish, only for technical issues with his car to force him to retire before the chequered flag.

Chinese Grand Prix – Race Results (Top 10)

1. Andrea Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) – 56 laps
2. George Russell (Mercedes) +5.515
3. Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) +25.267
4. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) +28.894
5. Oliver Bearman (Haas) +57.268
6. Pierre Gasly (Alpine) +59.647
7. Liam Lawson (RB) +1:20.588
8. Isack Hadjar (Red Bull) +1:27.247
9. Carlos Sainz (Williams) +1 lap
10. Franco Colapinto (Alpine) +1 lap