Kimi Antonelli Leads Championship Ahead of 2026 United States Grand Prix Practice
Italian driver Kimi Antonelli entered Free Practice 1 in Austin with a 102-point lead, positioning him to clinch the title if he wins the race on Sunday.
Kimi Antonelli arrived in Texas holding a 102-point advantage in the 2026 Formula One drivers' standings, a margin that could secure him the championship if he wins the United States Grand Prix on Sunday. To achieve the title, Antonelli must finish first while George Russell places ninth or lower and Lewis Hamilton finishes fifth or lower.
Red Bull's Max Verstappen and the team are expected to be strong competitors, as Mercedes confirmed both of its cars will use the upgraded package first introduced at Sepang. The practice session provided live timing and a real-time blog to keep fans updated on track activity throughout the event.