Kimi Antonelli celebrated his second Formula 1 victory. © APA/afp / TOSHIFUMI KITAMURA

Italy's prodigy continues to celebrate: Antonelli's next triumph

What a statement! Shooting star Kimi Antonelli secured his second consecutive victory in Suzuka and took over the lead in the World Championship. The Mercedes driver is now the youngest leader in Formula 1 history.

March 29, 2026

From: dpa/am

The Italian, who started from pole position, won the Suzuka Grand Prix on Sunday ahead of Australian Oscar Piastri in the McLaren and Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc. Antonelli's teammate George Russell, who had previously led the championship, finished only fourth.

At 19 years and 216 days old, Antonelli is by far the youngest Formula 1 World Championship leader in history. He broke the record previously held by Lewis Hamilton, who first took the lead in the standings in Spain in 2007 at the age of 22 years and 126 days. Two weeks ago, Antonelli celebrated his maiden victory in China.

Kimi Antonelli was unbeatable once again. © APA/afp / ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS

Four-time world champion Max Verstappen, who had won in Japan in the past four years, had to settle for eighth place in his Red Bull.

Formula 1 is now involuntarily taking an extended break. Due to the war in the Middle East, the races planned for April in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have been cancelled. The season will resume on May 3rd with the race in Miami.

Japanese Grand Prix: The result