Chinese Grand Prix 2026: Kimi Antonelli wins ahead of Russell

Russell’s attempts to overtake the Ferraris were complicated as Hamilton and Leclerc became trapped together as they battled for intra-team supremacy.

Hamilton led the first part of the race and led the train of Leclerc and Russell for eight laps after restarting after the safety car.

But on lap 23, Leclerc made a late move on Hamilton into Turn 14 at the end of the back straight, setting up a gripping battle for the next 15 laps.

After Leclerc took second, the Ferraris moved side by side through the first corner complex, with Leclerc simply holding on, Hamilton moving sharply into second place on the next lap.

Leclerc passed him again at the start of the next lap before Hamilton charged into Turn Six and then passed his teammate again into Turn Nine, but Leclerc passed again.

This time the fight allowed Russell to close in, passing Hamilton on the straight on lap 27 and Leclerc at the same place two laps later.

But after Russell left, Leclerc and Hamilton returned to their private battles.

Leclerc appeared to have won the race by leading Hamilton for a few laps, but the seven-time champion retook third place by lap 35.

Leclerc still wasn’t finished and passed Hamilton into Turn 14 four laps later, but Hamilton was able to get back into Turn One on the next lap.

This prompted Leclerc to go on radio and say: “This is actually a pretty fun fight.” And this time Hamilton managed to win while pulling away from his teammate.

Hamilton said afterwards: “It was one of the most enjoyable races I’ve had in a long time.”