Antonelli Makes F1 History With Stunning Pole at Chinese Grand Prix

Sports

Kimi Antonelli produced a sensational lap in qualifying for the Chinese Grand Prix to claim his first career Formula 1 pole position and become the youngest polesitter in the history of the sport at just 19 years old. The Mercedes driver edged out teammate George Russell in a dramatic session at the Shanghai International Circuit.

Antonelli’s final Q3 lap was enough to secure the top spot on the grid, delivering a historic moment for the young Italian and another dominant showing for Mercedes early in the 2026 season. The result also sealed a front row lockout for Mercedes, continuing the team’s strong form following their victory at the season opening Australian Grand Prix.

Russell, who has been one of the standout performers of the opening rounds, finished second on the grid after experiencing problems during the final part of qualifying. Despite the issue, the Briton recovered to secure a front row start and keep Mercedes firmly in control heading into Sunday’s race.

Ferrari locked out the second row with Lewis Hamilton qualifying third and Charles Leclerc fourth, placing the Scuderia in a strong position to challenge the Mercedes pair when the race begins. McLaren also showed solid pace, with Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris securing fifth and sixth respectively.

Further down the order, Alpine’s Pierre Gasly took seventh place, while Red Bull’s Max Verstappen could only manage eighth after struggling to match the pace of the leading teams around the Shanghai circuit. Red Bull teammate Isack Hadjar qualified ninth, with Haas driver Oliver Bearman completing the top ten.

The historic pole marks a major milestone for Antonelli in only his second Formula 1 season and signals the emergence of a new star at the front of the grid. With Mercedes locking out the front row and Ferrari and McLaren close behind, the stage is set for an exciting Chinese Grand Prix as the 2026 championship battle continues in Shanghai.