Kimi Antonelli secured pole position. © APA/afp / GREG BAKER

At 19 years old: Antonelli makes Formula 1 history

Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli has secured a pole position as the youngest driver in Formula 1 history.

March 14, 2026

From: dpa/sn

The Italian driver, aged just 19 years and 201 days, secured pole position for the first time in his career in Saturday's qualifying for the Chinese Grand Prix.

With that, Antonelli ousted the previous record holder, Sebastian Vettel, who sensationally secured pole position for Toro Rosso in Monza in 2008 at the age of 21 years and 73 days. Just under a year ago, Antonelli had already started from pole position in Formula 1 – albeit only for the sprint race in Miami. "I'm absolutely happy," Antonelli said. "Good session, no mistakes, I'm looking forward to tomorrow."

Kimi Antonelli © APA/afp / GREG BAKER

Antonelli relegated Australian Grand Prix winner and teammate George Russell, who struggled with technical issues and ultimately salvaged a win, to second place. Record world champion Lewis Hamilton finished third in his Ferrari. Four-time champion Max Verstappen could only manage eighth in his Red Bull.

Russell had previously won the sprint. (see own report).