Antonelli wins United States Grand Prix, moves closer to championship

Kimi Antonelli claimed his ninth win of the 2026 Formula 1 season at the United States Grand Prix, finishing ahead of Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen at Austin's Circuit of the Americas. Starting from pole position, the Mercedes driver maintained a one-stop strategy and held off challenges from the Ferrari and Red Bull drivers throughout the 56-lap race.

Verstappen lost time after a poor start and later reported engine-braking issues, prompting an additional pit stop that dropped him to fifth. Leclerc advanced past Verstappen on lap 49 to take second place, while Lewis Hamilton moved into fourth after passing the reigning world champion.

Antonelli managed his tyre wear by switching from medium to hard compounds on lap 25 and preserved a three-second margin over Leclerc to the finish. The result leaves the 20-year-old Italian needing just two points at the upcoming Mexico Grand Prix to clinch the drivers' title.

Other notable finishes included Lando Norris in fifth, Isack Hadjar sixth, and Oscar Piastri seventh. Retirements were recorded for Oliver Bearman, Franco Colapinto and Valtteri Bottas after incidents and mechanical failures.

The victory strengthens Antonelli's position in the championship battle, while Verstappen, Hamilton and Russell remain in mathematical contention heading into the final race.