RACE START: Watch as Hamilton surges into the lead during eventful opening lap in China

It was an eventful start to the Chinese Grand Prix, with Lewis Hamilton making a lightning launch to move into the lead ahead of polesitter Kimi Antonelli while both McLarens were unable to start owing to separate issues.

When the lights went out at the Shanghai International Circuit, Hamilton was quick off the line from P3 on the grid, resulting in the Ferrari driver snatching P1 from Antonelli. Behind them Leclerc also made a good getaway to move up into third.

Further back Haas’ Ollie Bearman enjoyed a close battle with Isack Hadjar, before the Red Bull spun off the track – while there was huge disappointment for Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, the former having failed to make it to the grid as the team worked on an issue in the garage while Piastri was pushed into the pit lane prior to the formation lap.

The McLaren pair were not the only ones unable to start the race, with Audi’s Gabriel Bortoleto and Williams’ Alex Albon also unable to participate.

To watch the action from the opening lap in China, click go on the video player above.