Antonelli wins US Grand Prix, eyes title at Mexico race

Kimi Antonelli claimed his ninth win of the season at the United States Grand Prix, converting pole position into a victory and finishing ahead of Charles Leclerc, who took second, and Max Verstappen, who completed the podium in third. Antonelli's one-stop strategy proved faster than the two-stop approaches of Red Bull and Ferrari, allowing him to maintain the lead after a long first stint.

The win leaves Antonelli 123 points ahead of teammate George Russell and 124 points ahead of Lewis Hamilton, meaning a finish in front of either rival, or a ninth-place finish or better regardless of their results, will secure the championship at the next round in Mexico City. A victory there would make the 20-year-old the youngest Formula One world champion and the first Italian champion since Alberto Ascari in 1953.

Mercedes praised the performance, noting that recent upgrades have improved the car's balance and reliability after earlier difficulties. The team said the car appeared well-matched to the Circuit of the Americas, which tests high-speed corners, low-speed sections and heavy braking zones.

"We are pleased with the result and the progress of the car," a Mercedes spokesperson said.

Antonelli, who emphasized his focus on enjoying the race rather than the championship pressure, described the pole lap as a surprise given Red Bull's recent strength. He added that the victory demonstrated the level of performance he aims to deliver throughout the season.