I'm speechless, says Kimi Antonelli after winning 2026 Chinese GP
What's the story
Kimi Antonelli, the 19-year-old Italian racing prodigy, has made history by winning his first-ever Formula 1 race at the Chinese Grand Prix. The victory made him the second-youngest driver ever to win a Grand Prix. An emotional Antonelli thanked his Mercedes team for their unwavering support in making his dream come true. "I'm speechless," Antonelli said after the race. "I'm about to cry, to be honest. Thank you so much to my team, because they helped me to achieve this dream."
Race recap
A look at Antonelli's F1 career so far
Antonelli had a mixed debut season in 2025, with some highs and lows. He finished 7th and earned three podium finishes. However, his 2026 season started on a strong note as he finished second at the Australian Grand Prix before clinching victory in China. This win also marked Antonelli as the first Italian to win a Grand Prix since Giancarlo Fisichella's triumph at the 2006 Malaysian Grand Prix.
Post-race reflections
'I really wanted to bring Italy back on top'
After his win, an emotional Antonelli thanked Mercedes for their support. "I'm super happy," Antonelli added. "I said yesterday I really wanted to bring Italy back on top and we did today, even though I gave myself a little bit of a heart attack towards the end with the flat-spot. It was a good race." Despite a shaky start where he allowed Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton to take the lead, Antonelli regained control by Lap 2.
Team responses
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, Hamilton react
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff expressed his delight at Antonelli's win, saying it was one of the best moments for him. Seven-time world champion Hamilton also congratulated the young driver on his maiden victory. "I have to say a huge congratulations to Kimi," Hamilton said. "I'm so happy for you, Kimi, and I'm so pleased to be sharing this moment with him."
Standings
Mercedes have dominated this season
Mercedes' George Russell owns 51 points after two GPs, including the Chinese GP sprint. Antonelli isn't far behind and has 47 points. Charles Leclerc (34), Hamilton (33), and Oliver Bearman (17) complete the top 5. Among teams, Mercedes have set an early tone with 98 points under their belt. Ferrari follows suit with 67 points. McLaren (18), Haas (17), and Red Bull Racing (12) complete the top 5.