Kimi Antonelli said Thursday that his maiden Formula One win had given him more "awareness" of his potential as he and Mercedes look to ram home their early season advantage in Japan. 

The 19-year-old Italian came home first at the Chinese Grand Prix to become the second-youngest race winner in history behind Max Verstappen, after finishing second at the season-opener in Australia. Mercedes have claimed one-two finishes at both grands prix so far in 2026, with Antonelli's team-mate George Russell winning in Australia. Antonelli said his approach would not change at this week's Japanese Grand Prix but admitted his win had boosted his confidence.