Russell takes pole for Chinese Grand Prix sprint race

George Russell secured pole position for the sprint race of the Chinese Grand Prix, confirming Mercedes’ strong start to the 2026 Formula 1 season. The British driver set the fastest lap with a time of 1:31.520 during sprint qualifying at the Shanghai International Circuit.

Mercedes dominated the session with a front-row lockout, as rookie teammate Kimi Antonelli finished second, just under three-tenths of a second behind Russell.

Behind the Mercedes pair, Lando Norris qualified third for McLaren, while Lewis Hamilton placed fourth for Ferrari. The top five was completed by McLaren’s Oscar Piastri, followed by Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc in sixth position.

Further down the grid, Alpine’s Pierre Gasly finished seventh, while reigning world champion Max Verstappen could only manage eighth place after struggling with pace during the session.

The result reinforces Mercedes’ early dominance in the 2026 campaign and sets up an intense sprint race in Shanghai as teams continue adjusting to the new regulations introduced for the season.