George Russell clinched a commanding victory at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, leading a Mercedes 1-2 finish alongside rookie teammate Kimi Antonelli.
The win marks a triumphant return to form for Mercedes as Formula 1 debuts its high-tech hybrid regulations.
Russell and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc swapped the lead frequently in the opening 10 laps, utilizing new “boost” and “recharge” modes.
Ferrari opted to stay out during a Virtual Safety Car (VSC) period on Lap 12. Mercedes pitted both cars, gaining a massive time advantage that left Leclerc to settle for third.
18-year-old Arvid Lindblad became the youngest Briton to race in F1, finishing an impressive 8th for Racing Bulls after briefly running as high as 3rd.
The paddock heads to the Shanghai International Circuit next weekend for the Chinese Grand Prix, which will feature the season’s first Sprint event.
