Kimi Antonelli Makes History in Japanese Grand Prix

Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli shattered two Formula 1 records at the Japanese Grand Prix, becoming the youngest driver ever to lead a race and secure the fastest lap.

Photo by Fia Formula 2

The 18-year-old Italian, competing in just his third Grand Prix, finished sixth at Suzuka after a performance that underscored his rapid adaptation to motorsport’s pinnacle series.

Antonelli, aged 18 years and 224 days, surpassed Max Verstappen’s previous benchmarks by leading 10 laps during a strategic pit-stop phase and clocking a blistering 1:30.965 on hard tires late in the race.

His fastest lap eclipsed Verstappen’s 2016 Brazil record, set when the Red Bull driver was 19. The Mercedes newcomer also became the youngest to top the timing sheets mid-race, showcasing composure beyond his years on one of F1’s most demanding circuits.

Starting sixth on the grid, Antonelli executed a 32-lap opening stint on medium tires, maintaining consistent pace before switching to hards. His final charge saw him close a nine-second gap to teammate George Russell, finishing just 1.3 seconds behind the Briton.

“The confidence I gained today was crucial,” Antonelli remarked, highlighting improved car feel after early-weekend struggles. “Exploring the car’s limits and pushing like this is exactly what I needed.”

Mercedes praised Antonelli’s growth, with Bradley Lord, the team’s communications director, noting his “milestone-heavy weekend” and “encouraging development trajectory.” The rookie’s 30 championship points already place him fifth overall, ahead of seasoned rivals. Antonelli, now eyeing podium contention, emphasized his focus: “Leading was special, but the final lap is what counts. We’re building toward bigger goals.”

Antonelli’s Suzuka performance signals a potential shift in F1’s youth movement, with the Italian joining the ranks of Verstappen and Lando Norris as record-setters. His ability to rebound from practice difficulties—aided by mentorship from reserve driver Valtteri Bottas—demonstrates a maturity that belies his age.

As the season progresses to Bahrain, Antonelli’s blend of raw speed and strategic acumen positions him as a dark horse in Mercedes’ campaign.

With three consecutive points finishes, Antonelli has solidified his status as 2025’s standout rookie. His Suzuka breakthrough not only rewrites the history books but also injects fresh excitement into Mercedes’ season, as the team seeks to bridge the gap to front-runners Red Bull and McLaren.

“This is just the beginning,” Antonelli asserted. “Every lap teaches me how to fight for higher.”