Mercedes Dominates F1 Chinese GP... Antonelli Claims First Career Victory

Antonelli and Russell Secure One-Two Finish
Mercedes Maintains Lead in Constructors' Standings

The Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport team continued its dominant momentum early in the season, taking control of the Chinese Grand Prix. Once again, following the season opener, the team claimed the top spot on the podium, demonstrating its technological prowess.

Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport team driver Kimi Antonelli. Mercedes-Benz Korea

The Mercedes team announced on March 16 that they achieved a 'one-two finish' (securing first and second place) at the 2026 F1 World Championship Chinese Grand Prix held the previous day, with Kimi Antonelli taking the victory and George Russell finishing second.

Kimi Antonelli started the race from pole position as the youngest driver in F1 history to do so and crossed the finish line first with a time of 1 hour, 33 minutes, and 15 seconds. George Russell, who started from the second grid based on his lap time of 1 minute and 32 seconds in the previous day's qualifying, joined him on the podium.

With this win, George Russell maintained his lead in the drivers' standings with 51 points, while Kimi Antonelli moved up to second place with 47 points. In the constructors' standings, the Mercedes team solidified its dominance with 98 points.

Kimi Antonelli said, "I am delighted to achieve my first F1 victory, something I've dreamed of since my karting days. I want to thank everyone who helped make this dream come true," adding, "I will work hard to show another strong performance at next week's Japanese Grand Prix."

George Russell said, "Congratulations to Kimi Antonelli on his first victory. I am very happy that we were able to achieve a one-two finish together and stand on the podium."

The Mercedes team plans to continue its winning streak at the third round, the Japanese Grand Prix, which will be held from March 27 to 29.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.