Madrid GP:Antonelli Triumphs as Verstappen and Norris Complete Podium

Kimi Antonelli claimed victory in the inaugural Formula 1 race at Madrid’s new circuit, delivering a controlled performance in a race shaped by high tyre degradation, several incidents and limited overtaking opportunities.Antonelli started from the front row and maintained control after the opening-lap battles. The Mercedes driver secured his eighth career victory, extending his championship advantage over teammate George Russell to 81 points.Max Verstappen finished second, while Lando Norris completed the podium. The McLaren driver had looked capable of challenging for a stronger result, but a problem with the wheel gun during his pit stop cost him valuable time and dropped him further down the order.Lewis Hamilton was among the notable retirements after encountering a brake problem that forced him to bring his car into the pits and end his race prematurely. Carlos Sainz and Sergio Perez also failed to reach the chequered flag.The new Madrid circuit once again demonstrated how difficult overtaking could be. Although the field remained closely matched on pace, opportunities to make decisive passes were extremely limited, meaning that starting position, strategy and pit-stop execution played a crucial role in determining the final order.George Russell recorded the fastest lap of the race, setting a 1:35.587.The championship will now move to Baku for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in two weeks. The event will follow a revised schedule, with the race taking place on Saturday.Fans can expect another intense weekend as teams prepare for the fast streets of Baku and another crucial championship battle ahead there.