Italian teenager Andrea Kimi Antonelli delivered a sensational performance Sunday, September 6, to win the Formula 1 Italian Grand Prix at the legendary Monza Circuit. The young Mercedes driver aimed to gain critical championship points and secure his dream home victory, achieving a historic feat by becoming the first Italian driver to win at Monza in 60 years since Ludovico Scarfiotti in 1966.

Sophomore Mia Jolie Nuñez said when asked on her opinion: “I am super happy Antonelli was able to win in Italy because he is very young and the first Italian to win on home soil in a while.”

Antonelli pulled off the stunning comeback by charging through the field after starting all the way back in 19th position due to engine-related grid penalties. He took advantage of clean overtakes on Monza’s long straights, made crucial ground during a red flag caused by Charles Leclerc’s high-speed crash into the barriers, and passed teammate George Russell late in the race to lead a 1-2 finish for Mercedes. Max Verstappen completed the podium in third place for Red Bull.

“It was very unfortunate Leclerc crashed out early on. I thought Russell would have won, but Antonelli shocked everyone,” said junior Cedric Bausili.

The remarkable victory extended Antonelli’s leads in the 2026 World Drivers’ Championship over teammate Russell, leaving the young Italian firmly in control of the title chase as the season heads into its final stretch.

The next race on the Formula One calendar is in Madrid September 13th at 9 am.