Kimi Antonelli dominates United States Grand Prix but must wait for F1 title
Kimi Antonelli strengthened his grip on the 2026 Formula 1 championship with a commanding victory in the 56-lap United States Grand Prix at Austin. Starting from pole, the Mercedes driver resisted early pressure and controlled the race on a one-stop strategy, switching from medium to hard tyres on lap 25. He finished 13 seconds ahead of Charles Leclerc, with Max Verstappen another four seconds behind.
Verstappen’s poor start allowed Leclerc to move ahead, but Red Bull put the Dutchman on a two-stop strategy by pitting him for soft tyres on lap 14. Engine-braking problems later forced another stop and left him fifth, although he recovered by passing Lando Norris for second on lap 47. Leclerc, benefiting from fresher tyres, overtook Verstappen two laps later. Lewis Hamilton then passed Norris for fourth, while Isack Hadjar, Oscar Piastri and George Russell completed the top eight.
The victory was Antonelli’s ninth of the season, but it did not quite secure the championship. The 20-year-old Italian now needs only two points at the Mexico Grand Prix to become Formula 1’s youngest world champion. Hamilton and Russell remain mathematically in contention, with Russell narrowly preserving his chances by finishing eighth despite a five-second penalty. Liam Lawson and Pierre Gasly claimed the final points, while Oliver Bearman, Franco Colapinto and Valtteri Bottas retired.
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