CSN News: Australian Grand Prix drama: results changed

The Australian Grand Prix 2025 ended in a surprising twist, as Kimi Antonelli’s post-race punishment was overturned. This restored the young Italian to his fourth place finish in his spectacular Formula 1 debut.

The 17-year-old Mercedes starlet, who had clawed his way from 16th on the grid to a remarkable fourth-place finish, was hit with a five-second penalty after the stewards deemed his pit lane release into the path of Nico Hülkenberg unsafe. Alex Albon, who had been ranked fifth in the official ranking before his penalty was imposed, now sits at number five. Hours later, however, a Mercedes appeal changed the game yet again.

Mercedes fights back with a smile

Mercedes did not want to see their prodigy’s dream debut overshadowed. They filed a petition immediately to review the punishment. The rules required a ‘significant and relevant new element’ for a review to be granted, and Mercedes found exactly that.

Only after the race was new footage available from Antonelli’s camera. This provided vital evidence. The stewards agreed that Antonelli hadn’t crossed the fast lane till much further down pit lane. They also acknowledged that Antonelli checked his mirrors and didn’t move until he did. This new perspective allowed the penalty to be canceled, restoring Antonelli’s hard-earned fourth-place finish.

Wolff sings Antonelli’s praises

Toto Wolff, the team principal of Mercedes-Benz was Full of praise For his young driver’s performance and resilience. Sky Sports F1 reported that he had said, “He used the pace to show it when he was able. He had to. He got up to fourth and that’s what matters.”

Antonelli, who is a young man himself, reflects on his rollercoaster start with maturity far beyond his age. He said, “I learned so many things.” “Yesterday’s race was great, but yesterday was disappointing.” We don’t ever want to be that far behind again. But the team did an excellent job of keeping me calm and making good decisions.

The highs and lows of the biggest names

Antonelli’s weekend was a success, but not everyone had the same luck. Lando Norris, of McLaren, won the race by keeping Max Verstappen away in the final laps. George Russell finished third while Oscar Piastri, the home favourite, could only manage ninth due to an off-track incident in torrential downpour.

Ferrari’s strategy gamble failed spectacularly for Lewis Hamilton. Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton could only manage 10th in his debut race for Scuderia. Teammate Charles Leclerc did slightly better, finishing eighth.

F1’s young gun makes a Statement

The performance of Antonelli in Melbourne was a clear indication that the hype surrounding him is true. Mercedes is excited by the 17-year-old’s raw speed and maturity under pressure. He also showed a keen racer instinct. With his penalty now erased from the record, he can walk away from his debut with his head held high – and the F1 world on notice.

Watch this space – Kimi Antonelli has arrived.

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