Antonelli Wins Italian GP From 19th

Kimi Antonelli delivered a stunning performance to win the Italian Grand Prix at Monza on Sunday, September 6, 2026, driving from 19th on the grid to claim victory. The 20-year-old Mercedes driver's remarkable comeback not only marked the first time an Italian has won their home Grand Prix in 60 years but also significantly extended his lead in the Drivers Championship.

Antonelli started at the rear of the field due to engine penalties but systematically advanced through the pack. A pivotal moment came during a mid-race Virtual Safety Car period, which allowed Mercedes to pit Antonelli for fresh medium tires. This strategic advantage proved decisive as he hunted down his teammate George Russell, who had been running on older hard tires, and overtook him with three laps remaining to secure his seventh win of the season.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff lauded Antonelli's drive, comparing his rapid development and learning ability to an advanced artificial intelligence. Wolff also drew parallels between Antonelli's performance and the greatest drives by seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton, calling the victory at Monza a moment of immense personal significance for the young...