Antonelli 123 points clear, could win F1 title at Mexico City GP
Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli has led since Round 3 and won the United States GP; sources say he may clinch the title in Mexico.
Key facts
Story- Kimi Antonelli leads the 2026 F1 drivers' standings, 123 points ahead of George Russell
- Antonelli could win the title at the Mexico City Grand Prix if he finishes ninth or better
- Russell and Hamilton can still mathematically catch him, but both say their chances are slim
What's new
Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli has moved closer to the Formula 1 world championship. He won the United States Grand Prix from pole, his ninth win of the 2026 season, according to Autosport. Formula 1 says he is now 123 points clear of George Russell, with Lewis Hamilton 124 points behind. Five rounds remain, the next being the Mexico City Grand Prix.
Why it matters
For Indian fans, the title could be decided soon. If Antonelli finishes at least ninth in Mexico City, he wins the championship there. He would also become F1's youngest ever world champion, Autosport notes. Fans would see the title settled before the season's final race in Abu Dhabi.
What others say
Autosport frames the Austin win as a major step toward the title and highlights the record it would bring. Formula 1 says Antonelli needed Hamilton to finish fifth or lower and Russell ninth or lower in Austin. Hamilton finished fourth and Russell eighth, so the title was not decided there.
What we don't know yet
It is not yet known whether Antonelli will finish ninth or better in Mexico City. Formula 1 says Russell or Hamilton could only take the title in Abu Dhabi, and only if Antonelli fails to score and they win every remaining race.
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