Chinese Grand Prix 2026: Kimi Antonelli wins ahead of Russell

Russell’s attempts to pass the Ferraris were complicated as Hamilton and Leclerc got stuck into each other as they fought for intra-team supremacy.

Hamilton led the way for the first part of the race and he led a train featuring Leclerc and Russell for eight laps after the restart following 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 off a gripping battle for the next 15 laps.

After Leclerc claimed second, the Ferraris went side by side through the first-corner complex, Leclerc just holding on, before Hamilton reclaimed second into the hairpin the following lap.

Leclerc passed him again at the start of the following lap, before Hamilton attacked into Turn Six and then passed his team-mate again into Turn Nine, only for Leclerc to re-pass again.

This time, their battle allowed Russell to close up, and he passed Hamilton on the straight on lap 27 and then Leclerc in the same place two laps later.

But once Russell was gone, Leclerc and Hamilton returned to their private fight.

Leclerc seemed to have it won as he led Hamilton for a few laps, only for the seven-time champion to reclaim third place on lap 35.

Leclerc still wasn’t finished and he passed Hamilton into Turn 14 four laps later, only for Hamilton to get back past again into Turn One on the following lap.

That prompted Leclerc to come on to the radio and say: “That’s actually quite a fun battle.” And this time Hamilton had it won, as he eased away from his team-mate.

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