Antonelli takes Sepang lead as Mercedes pair nails getaway

Verstappen still won from pole

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 5h1 min read

What a launch from Kimi and George! 🫨 Mercedes had the pace and the tyres for the perfect getaway in Sepang 💨 #F1 #Bah Via @F1 on X

What happened: Antonelli started fourth and emerged in front at the Sepang getaway. Russell joined him in second, with tyre preparation powering the Mercedes launch.

Why it matters: Track position proved decisive on a weekend Mercedes started slowly after a difficult Friday. Antonelli finished second behind Verstappen in Malaysia while Russell retired late with a technical issue.

By the numbers: Antonelli: qualified fourth, finished second. Verstappen: pole to win. Hamilton: qualified second, finished third.

What to watch: The triple-header closes with a sprint weekend under the lights at Marina Bay.

Sources

@F1 2026-10-05T15:13:16.128715+00:00

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