Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli called his maiden Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix victory the "best day of my life," according to Motorsport.com. The 19-year-old converted his first pole position into his first F1 win at the Shanghai International Circuit on March 15, ending Italy's 20-year wait for an F1 winner since Giancarlo Fisichella's triumph at the 2006 Malaysian Grand Prix.
Reflecting on the achievement, Antonelli explained on the Mercedes Nu Silver Arrows Radio Show, as reported by Motorsport.com, that it "probably was so far the best day of my life." He added, "Being able to achieve one of my dreams and to get that first win. And the first one is always special because it happens only once." He described the moment as "very meaningful for me, for the team, for my family," noting his father's presence at the circuit and the emotional reception back home. "At the airport, there were journalists and stuff, a lot of excitement because the last one was 2006... To bring back Italy on top was really cool and definitely created a lot of excitement."
Antonelli now heads into the Miami Grand Prix as the championship leader, holding a nine-point advantage over teammate George Russell.