Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team showed their first small weakness in 2026 qualifying for the Chinese Grand Prix, but they still dominated the grid.
Teen driver Kimi Antonelli made history by becoming the youngest pole winner in Formula One, while teammate George Russell secured second place to give Mercedes a front-row lockout.
Ferrari drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc qualified just behind them, slightly closing the gap and hinting Mercedes may not be completely unbeatable this season.
However, Hamilton admitted Ferrari are still likely slower over race pace, meaning Mercedes remain the team to beat despite these early signs of vulnerability.
