New Delhi, May 25 (H.S.): Kimi Antonelli delivered a remarkable performance to secure his fourth consecutive victory at the Canadian Grand Prix held on Sunday at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal. The 19-year-old Mercedes driver created history with the triumph.

A thrilling battle unfolded during the race between Antonelli and his Mercedes teammate George Russell, with the lead changing hands several times. One of the most intense moments came on the 13th lap as the two drivers fought fiercely for position. However, on the 30th lap of the 68-lap race, Russell’s car suffered a power unit failure, forcing him to retire from the race.

Antonelli became the first Italian driver since Alberto Ascari in 1952 to win four consecutive Formula One races. He also became the first Formula One driver in history to win each of the opening four races of his career.

After the victory, Antonelli said:

“I did not want to win in this manner. It was a fantastic battle with George, but a win is a win.”

Antonelli completed the race in 1 hour, 28 minutes and 15 seconds, finishing nearly 11 seconds ahead of Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton. Max Verstappen of Red Bull secured third place.

Mercedes have now won all five Grands Prix of the season so far. Antonelli leads the Drivers’ Championship standings with 131 points, while George Russell is second with 88 points.

Expressing disappointment over the technical issue in his car, Russell said:

“Everything suddenly shut down. The engine stopped, the electronics were not functioning, and the braking system was also not working properly. It is extremely disappointing.”

In the Constructors’ Championship standings, Mercedes-Benz lead with 219 points, followed by Ferrari with 147 points, while McLaren are third with 106 points.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar