Antonelli’s Historic Shanghai Win and the Stories Behind the Scenes

The 2026 Chinese Grand Prix delivered a weekend of firsts and feel-fine moments, headlined by Kimi Antonelli’s breakthrough victory. The Shanghai International Circuit proved once again to be a popular destination for drivers and fans alike, offering a blend of on-track drama and off-track adventures. Here’s a seem at the key stories from the race weekend.

Antonelli Makes History

Kimi Antonelli, driving for Mercedes, achieved a historic win in Shanghai, becoming the second-youngest winner in Formula 1 history ESPN. The 19-year-old Italian followed up his record-breaking pole position – the youngest ever in F1 – with a dominant performance in the Grand Prix, securing his maiden victory in just his 26th start The New York Times. He also secured the fastest lap of the race.

A Symbolic Podium for Mercedes

The podium ceremony was particularly poignant, featuring Antonelli alongside Mercedes teammates George Russell and Lewis Hamilton Formula 1. This represented a passing of the torch, with Antonelli stepping into the seat previously occupied by Hamilton at Mercedes. The moment was further enhanced by the presence of Peter Bonnington, Hamilton’s long-time race engineer, who collected the constructors’ trophy Formula 1. Toto Wolff, the Mercedes team principal, remarked on the unusual sight of seemingly three Mercedes cars competing.

Driver Adventures in Shanghai

Drivers took the opportunity to explore Shanghai before the race weekend. Franco Colapinto amused fans with his explorations of the Bund district, whereas Lewis Hamilton enjoyed activities such as horse riding and visiting local villages Formula 1. Hamilton also attended the TeamLH China art show, admiring crafts created in his honor. Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz immersed themselves in the local culture, sampling the city’s cuisine.

Hamilton’s Mother’s Day Podium

Lewis Hamilton’s first podium finish with Ferrari coincided with Mother’s Day, making it a particularly special occasion as his mother, Carmen Larbalestier, was present throughout the race weekend, offering her support Formula 1.

Colapinto and ‘Punch the Monkey’

Franco Colapinto’s affection for the viral star ‘Punch the Monkey’ was on full display throughout the weekend. He showcased a ‘Punch’ sticker on his water bottle and was surprised with an “emotional support” monkey plushie by a fan, which he carried with him throughout the event Formula 1. Colapinto went on to score his first points for Alpine during the Grand Prix.

Zhou’s Homecoming

Despite no longer being on the F1 grid, Zhou Guanyu received a hero’s welcome in his hometown of Shanghai as part of his role with Cadillac. He hosted a photography exhibition titled ‘Time Without Speed,’ showcasing snapshots from his life both on and off the track, including a picture of his cat, Sweetcorn Formula 1.

A Humorous Touch to Sustainability

The Shanghai International Circuit organizers added a playful element to their sustainability efforts by labeling water taps with references to Charles Leclerc’s famous team radio message, “Must be the water” Formula 1.

Russell’s Shanghai-Inspired Helmet

George Russell showed his appreciation for China with a special helmet design inspired by local details, landscapes, and traditional Chinese porcelain Formula 1.