Suzuka, Japan – April 6, 2025 — Andrea Kimi Antonelli made headlines at the Japanese Grand Prix by becoming the youngest driver in Formula One history to lead a race and set the fastest lap. Driving for Mercedes, the 18-year-old Italian impressed with a strong performance that saw him finish sixth.
Antonelli, aged 18 years and 224 days, led the field for 10 laps during a 31-lap opening stint on medium tyres. He later posted the fastest lap of the race with a time of 1:30.965 on hard tyres around the iconic Suzuka Circuit.
This marked his third consecutive race finish in the points, coming in one place ahead of seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton — the driver he replaced at Mercedes after Hamilton’s move to Ferrari.
Reflecting on his performance, Antonelli shared with Sky Sports: “What made me happiest today was the confidence I had in the car. That wasn’t there on Friday or early Saturday. Setting the fastest lap was a bit of a surprise, but it shows how much progress we made.”
Antonelli’s improved pace was evident as he managed consistent lap times during a long initial stint. Although he was closing in on the cars ahead, he ran out of time before mounting a challenge for a higher position.
“It was also a great feeling to lead a Grand Prix for a few laps,” Antonelli added. “Now the next goal is to lead on the lap that counts the most — the final one.”
The previous record for youngest fastest lap was held by Max Verstappen, who achieved it at 19 years and 44 days during the 2016 Brazilian Grand Prix. Verstappen still remains the youngest race winner at 18 years and 228 days — just four days older than Antonelli is now.
Verstappen secured another victory on Sunday, starting from pole and finishing first for Red Bull.