Antonelli wins Japan F1 race, leads world standings

March 29, 2026 / 6:04 PM

Sharjah24: Italian driver Kimi Antonelli secured victory at the Japanese Grand Prix, the third round of the Formula 1 World Championship, held at Suzuka Circuit, becoming the youngest driver in history to top the championship standings.

The 19-year-old Mercedes driver secured his second consecutive victory following the Chinese Grand Prix, overcoming a poor start and capitalising on a safety car period to take the lead. He finished ahead of Australia’s Oscar Piastri of McLaren and Monaco’s Charles Leclerc of Ferrari.

Antonelli celebrated the win over team radio, saying: “The pace was incredible today.”

Youngest leader in championship history

With this result, Antonelli moved to the top of the standings with 72 points, overtaking his Mercedes teammate George Russell, who finished fourth and now has 63 points.

The victory emphasises Antonelli’s swift ascent in Formula 1, especially in a season characterised by notable modifications to hybrid engine regulations and aerodynamic rules.