Kimi Antonelli is on the verge of making Formula 1 history after another dominant performance at the United States Grand Prix moved the Mercedes driver within reach of his first world championship.
The 20-year-old Italian captured his ninth Grand Prix victory of the 2026 season Sunday at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas. Starting from pole position, Antonelli controlled the race and crossed the finish line 13.078 seconds ahead of Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc.
The victory strengthened his position at the top of the drivers’ standings and put him just two points away from mathematically securing the championship. With the Mexico City Grand Prix coming up this weekend, Antonelli has an opportunity to finish the job and become the youngest world champion in Formula 1 history.
Antonelli Dominates in Austin
Antonelli entered the United States Grand Prix knowing that a strong result could bring him closer to the championship. He delivered exactly what Mercedes needed, combining a strong start with consistent pace and an effective race strategy.
While Leclerc finished second and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen claimed third, Antonelli remained comfortably ahead throughout the closing stages.
His teammate and closest championship rival, George Russell, finished eighth. Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton placed fourth, meaning neither driver could significantly reduce Antonelli’s advantage.
The result extended Antonelli’s lead over Russell to 123 points, with Hamilton 124 points behind. Only those two drivers remain mathematically capable of catching him.
One Step Away From History
Antonelli can clinch the championship at the Mexico City Grand Prix by finishing ninth or better. He could also secure the title if neither Russell nor Hamilton wins the race.
Winning the championship would represent a remarkable achievement for the young Mercedes star. At just 20 years old, Antonelli has established himself as one of the leading drivers in the sport during a season featuring nine Grand Prix victories.
Although the title is nearly within reach, Mercedes will still need to approach the weekend carefully. A difficult qualifying session, mechanical problem or unexpected incident could delay the celebrations.
Mexico Could Be the Turning Point
Antonelli has remained focused on delivering strong results rather than getting distracted by the championship calculations. That mindset has helped him maintain his advantage through the closing stages of the season.
With the Mexico City Grand Prix approaching, the pressure will be on Russell and Hamilton to produce extraordinary results while hoping Antonelli struggles.
However, the championship is now firmly in Antonelli’s hands. After another commanding victory in Austin, the Mercedes driver is one strong weekend away from securing his place in Formula 1 history.