Kimi Antonelli claimed the Formula One world championship lead for the first time in his career after winning the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka. The Italian, who started sixth due to Mercedes' poor race start, capitalized on a Safety Car triggered by Oscar Piastri's crash to take the lead on lap 35. Antonelli then unleashed a stunning second stint, finishing 13 seconds ahead of Piastri to secure the win. His nine-point advantage over George Russell makes him the youngest driver ever to lead the championship, surpassing Lewis Hamilton's record set at 22 in 2007.