Mercedes Rookie Antonelli Outruns Seven‑Time Champion in Sprint Race

In a standout performance at Silverstone’s sprint event, Mercedes newcomer Andreia Kimi Antonelli, aged 19, outpaced seven‑time world champion Lewis Hamilton to take the checkered flag. Antonelli exhibited composure beyond his years, using a calculated acceleration on lap eight to slip past Hamilton on the Hangar Straight.

His disciplined management of the hybrid battery allowed him to defend the lead through the final laps, delivering his first Formula 1 win and sending a strong message to the championship rivals. The victory widened teammate George Russell’s lead to 43 points, reinforcing Mercedes’ bid for the title.

The early stages saw fierce competition among Lando Norris, George Russell and Max Verstappen, with frequent position swaps. Norris vaulted from sixth to fourth within two laps, while Verstappen’s challenge dwindled under pressure from Charles Leclerc, who briefly occupied fifth.

Oscar Piastri secured sixth for McLaren, and Liam Lawson earned the final point after a close duel with Isaac Haryanto.

Qualifying for the full Grand Prix race is set for 7:30 pm IST, promising another intense showdown.