The 19-year-old Italian sensation claimed his second career victory -
Фото:Depositphotos

A star is rising in Formula 1, and his name is Andrea Kimi Antonelli. The 19-year-old Italian sensation claimed his second career victory with a composed and clinical drive at the Japanese Grand Prix, a result that sends him to the top of the drivers’ standings — making him the youngest championship leader in the sport’s history.

Starting from pole position, Antonelli initially struggled off the line. Alongside his Mercedes teammate George Russell, he lost ground to fast-starting rivals from McLaren and Ferrari. But as so often in motorsport, timing proved everything.

A safety car — triggered by an incident involving Oliver Bearman — turned the race on its head. Antonelli capitalised perfectly, reclaiming the lead and never looking back. From that moment on, the young Italian controlled the pace with remarkable maturity, eventually crossing the line more than 10 seconds clear of Oscar Piastri.

Behind him, Charles Leclerc secured third place for Ferrari, winning a tight battle with Russell for the final podium spot. Lewis Hamilton, who had been in contention earlier in the race, faded in the closing stages and was overtaken by Lando Norris, finishing sixth.

Meanwhile, reigning four-time world champion Max Verstappen endured a challenging afternoon. Starting down in 11th, the Red Bull driver fought hard through the field but ultimately lost out to Pierre Gasly in a last-lap battle for seventh place.