Kimi Antonelli moved within reach of the Formula 1 title by turning pole position into a win in Austin. He can clinch the championship in Mexico with a ninth-place finish or better, becoming the youngest champion in F1 history. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff praised the 20-year-old’s performance, while teammate George Russell struggled and finished eighth.

By the Numbers
  • Antonelli needs at least ninth place in Mexico to clinch the title.
  • At 20, he could break Sebastian Vettel’s record as the youngest F1 champion.
  • Mercedes reportedly invested about $22 million in Antonelli’s development; his 2026 earnings, including bonuses, could near $11 million.
Yes, But

Antonelli is heavily favored, but the title is not yet secured. He said championship talk added pressure before Austin, while Russell’s poor result left him unable to prevent Antonelli from moving close to the crown.

What's Next

Antonelli can settle the championship in Mexico this weekend. If he falls short, Wolff says Mercedes will celebrate after the following race in Brazil.

Bottom Line

Antonelli’s Austin win put a historic title within reach—and reinforced Mercedes’ bet on its young driver as Russell continues to struggle alongside him.