Lewis Hamilton confidently held onto his first front row start for Ferrari under the threat of Max Verstappen's rapid Red Bull on the opening lap of the Sprint in China.
The seven-time world champion quickly moved across to defend his pole position heading down the long stretch to Turn 1, preventing the Dutchman from improving upon his P2 start as Hamilton led his first Sprint for the Italian team.
LIVE COVERAGE: Follow all the action from the F1 Sprint in China
The frontrunners maintained their qualifying order as the 19-lap Sprint got underway cleanly, with the exception of last week's race winner Lando Norris momentarily dipping a wheel into the gravel further back and losing several places.
Watch the start of the Sprint in Shanghai by clicking play on the video above.
Next Up
Related Articles
Mercedes confirm date for first look at 2026 F1 car.webp)
How Lewis Hamilton became F1’s most influential fashion icon
Grosjean reunited with helmet from 2020 Bahrain GP crash.webp)
What F1 drivers have been up to over the festive holidays.webp)
How F1 drivers recharge during the winter break
Audi complete first fire-up of 2026 F1 car