Kimi Antonelli Clinches Second Career Win for Mercedes at Japanese Grand Prix
Kimi Antonelli claimed a dramatic victory at the Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka. It is his second career win and his second in successive races.
Race turning point
A safety car followed a high-speed crash involving British driver Ollie Bearman. The incident at 140mph allowed Antonelli to pit without losing track position.
Podium and finishing order
Antonelli crossed the line 13.7 seconds clear of his nearest rival. Oscar Piastri finished second for McLaren and Charles Leclerc took third.
- 1. Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) — winner
- 2. Oscar Piastri (McLaren)
- 3. Charles Leclerc
- 4. George Russell
- 5. Lando Norris
- 6. Lewis Hamilton
- 8. Max Verstappen
George Russell finished fourth. He had pitted for fresh tyres moments before the safety car.
Russell was heard shouting “unbelievable” after his late tyre stop.
Championship impact
The result produced a 13-point swing in the standings. Antonelli now leads the championship by nine points over Russell.
The 19-year-old Mercedes driver won in China a fortnight earlier, making this a run of back-to-back victories.
Filmogaz.com will carry further analysis and reaction from Suzuka. More detailed coverage will follow.
