Fans back Antonelli after a breakout weekend
F1 fans have delivered a clear message about Kimi Antonelli's 2026 prospects. The young Italian claimed his first grand prix victory at the Chinese GP in commanding fashion. That came a day after he became the youngest driver ever to take pole position, surpassing Sebastian Vettel's 2008 mark set at age 18.
With the Mercedes W17 looking like the car to beat this season, the title race currently centers on Antonelli and his team-mate George Russell. Russell leads the standings by four points after winning the Chinese Sprint, and both drivers have one grand prix win each so far.
Readers give their verdict
A poll of RacingNews365 readers asked whether Antonelli could win the championship. Just under two thirds said yes, believing the Italian could end a 73-year wait for a drivers' title for Italy. The last Italian world champion was Alberto Ascari in 1953.
Quick history and context
- Early Italian champions: Giuseppe Farina won the inaugural title in 1950, and Alberto Ascari took back-to-back championships in 1952 and 1953.
- Best finishes since: Michele Alboreto finished runner-up in 1985 and Riccardo Patrese was runner-up in 1992.
If Antonelli does clinch the 2026 drivers' title, he would become the sixth driver to win his first grand prix in the same year he won his first world championship. The five who did it before him are:
- Giuseppe Farina, 1950
- Jack Brabham, 1959
- Graham Hill, 1962
- Denny Hulme, 1967
- Keke Rosberg, 1982
Polls are not official results, but the fans have spoken. They think Antonelli has a genuine shot at making history this season.
