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Antonelli, 19, Takes Pole, Fastest Lap and Win in Shanghai, Ending Italy’s 20-Year F1 Drought

Mercedes’ long‑term investment under Toto Wolff now elevates the Bologna‑born teenager into credible championship contention.

Overview

  • The Mercedes driver became the second‑youngest Grand Prix winner in history, behind only Max Verstappen.
  • His pole–fastest lap–win hat‑trick is the first by an Italian since Alberto Ascari in 1953.
  • Giovanni Minardi says he identified Antonelli at age eight, paving the way for a 2019 move into Mercedes’ academy after Ferrari judged him too young.
  • Back in Bologna, he received widespread acclaim, recalled being close to tears on the podium, and dedicated the result to his family and team.
  • Antonelli said a world title is achievable if he executes, with a strong Mercedes package and George Russell shaping the intra‑team fight.