Hamilton’s first Ferrari podium and Antonelli’s win ignite online reaction

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Photo: Race Pictures
F1 News
21:00, 15 Mar
Updated: 21:45, 15 Mar
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Kimi Antonelli continued Mercedes’ dominant start to the 2026 season with a stunning victory at the Chinese Grand Prix, while Lewis Hamilton ended his podium drought for Scuderia Ferrari. Here’s how the Internet reacted to the action in Shanghai.
The Shanghai race kicked off with drama even before the lights went out, as four drivers, including the McLaren duo Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, failed to start the race due to technical issues.
When the lights went out, Antonelli, who was on pole, briefly saw Hamilton’s Ferrari storm into the lead on the opening lap.
While the Italian driver battled past the seven-time champion to reclaim the lead, teammate George Russell was also overtaken by Charles Leclerc.
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Kimi Antonelli, George Russell and Lewis Hamilton on the Chinese GP podium - Photo: Race Pictures
Amid the exchange of positions among the front-running drivers, an issue with Lance Stroll’s Aston Martin prompted a safety car, which saw several drivers dive into the pits.
In the middle of the field, Max Verstappen also faced his fair share of problems, with the Dutch driver forced to retire after an ERS issue. However, amid the chaos that largely defined the race, it was Antonelli who stole the spotlight with his well-executed drive, earning his maiden Grand Prix victory. The 19-year-old clinched first place ahead of Russell, with Hamilton completing the podium.

Here’s how the Internet reacted to all the drama at the Shanghai GP

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