Kimi Antonelli and Isack Hadjar had a conversation before the 2026 Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix, following their clash during the sprint race. Antonelli, struggling to make up positions after a poor start, made contact with Hadjar at Turn 6, resulting in damage to the Red Bull car. The stewards penalized Antonelli for the incident. However, Hadjar initially refused Antonelli’s apology after finishing fourth in the sprint race.
The situation seemed to have calmed down by Sunday, with Antonelli securing his first Formula 1 grand prix victory. He clarified during the post-race press conference that he had resolved the matter with Hadjar during the drivers’ parade. Antonelli took responsibility for the incident, acknowledging his mistake and apologizing to Hadjar, who was caught in the heat of the moment. The Mercedes driver understood Hadjar’s initial reaction and was not bothered by it, as things had smoothed out between them the following day.
In the end, the incident between Antonelli and Hadjar had been resolved amicably after a tense moment on the track during the sprint race.
