Kimi Antonelli won the US Grand Prix for Mercedes on October 25, 2026, but fourth place for Lewis Hamilton and eighth for George Russell kept the Formula One title race open until Mexico.

US Grand Prix leaves title within reach

Antonelli’s ninth victory of the season put him 123 points ahead of Mercedes teammate Russell and 124 ahead of Ferrari’s Hamilton. A maximum of 125 points remains available, falling to 100 after the Mexico City race.

The 20-year-old Italian needs two points in Mexico to be sure of the championship. A ninth-place finish would be enough, making him Formula One’s youngest champion.

Leclerc and Verstappen complete podium

Antonelli started from pole position and won on a one-stop strategy at Austin’s Circuit of the Americas. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc finished second, 13.078 seconds behind, while Red Bull’s Max Verstappen took third.

A late virtual safety car slowed Hamilton’s pursuit of Verstappen. Hamilton finished fourth, followed by McLaren’s Lando Norris, Red Bull’s Isack Hadjar and McLaren’s Oscar Piastri.

Russell received a five-second penalty for gaining an advantage on Piastri on the opening lap. Racing Bulls’ Liam Lawson finished ninth, and Alpine’s Pierre Gasly took the final point in 10th.

Next milestone

Antonelli’s next chance to clinch the championship is in Mexico City the following weekend.

Read More News

More FinanceVelix news

Disclaimer

This FinanceVelix article provides general information, not personalized financial, investment, legal, or tax advice. Market prices, interest rates and economic conditions can change; investments carry a risk of loss. Facts reflect the material available when published and may change. Check important information independently and consult a qualified professional when needed. Mentioning an asset, company, or service is not an endorsement.