Andrea Kimi Antonelli proved his class in front of his home crowd. The Mercedes driver delivered a stunning performance to win the Italian Grand Prix on Sunday (7/9/2025), having started from 19th on the grid due to an engine penalty.
The 20-year-old was aggressive from the first lap, picking off rivals one by one around the legendary Monza circuit. Slowly but surely, he climbed through the order and eventually took the lead of the race.
Despite a red flag and a Virtual Safety Car (VSC) period, Antonelli never lost focus. He maintained his rhythm and finished 3.8 seconds ahead of his teammate, George Russell. This victory also made history: it was the first time in 60 years that an Italian driver won their home race.
Championship Battle Heats Up
The result extends Antonelli's lead at the top of the standings. He now holds a 66-point advantage over Russell. With a long season still ahead, his chances of claiming the drivers' title are looking increasingly strong.
Behind them, Max Verstappen took third for Red Bull after briefly looking like a contender for victory. Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri engaged in a thrilling late-race battle, with Norris overtaking Piastri on the final lap to secure fourth place.
Ferrari's Misery and Other Surprises
Lewis Hamilton had to settle for sixth on a difficult day for Ferrari. Worse, Charles Leclerc crashed at the final corner on lap three, triggering a red flag. The home crowd were left disappointed, but they still had their home hero's victory to celebrate.
Pierre Gasly was unable to convert his sensational pole position into a victory challenge, finishing seventh. Arvid Lindblad brought home important points for Racing Bulls in eighth.
Franco Colapinto finished ninth, securing a double points finish for Alpine. Meanwhile, Yuki Tsunoda, back on the grid for just two races, delivered a consistent performance to claim the final points position in tenth.
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Kimi Antonelli wins the 2026 Italian GP, leading a Mercedes 1-2 with Russell. Verstappen third, Leclerc crashes on lap 1. See full results and standings.
Kimi Antonelli wins 2026 Italian GP, first Italian to conquer Monza in 60 years. A stunning comeback from P19.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli won the 2026 Italian GP at Monza, extending his F1 lead to 66 points over George Russell. Title hopes now brighter than ever.
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