Antonelli praised by rivals as 2026 title remains within reach in Austin
Kimi Antonelli heads into the United States Grand Prix with a commanding championship advantage and could secure the 2026 Formula 1 title this weekend in Austin. Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris both offered strong praise for the Mercedes driver’s level this season.
Ahead of the United States Grand Prix, Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli holds a 102-point lead over team-mate George Russell in the 2026 standings. Hamilton is a further 111 points back, and Antonelli can be crowned champion as early as this weekend in Austin.
Lewis Hamilton described Antonelli as "massively impressive" and said he "deserves to be the champion." Separately, Lando Norris said Antonelli’s 2026 level has been "two levels above George Russell," while also rating Russell highly.
Across the reports, the common picture is that Antonelli has built a substantial points cushion and is being widely praised by fellow drivers as the title comes into view.
In this story
Sources (2)
Summaries are synthesized by F1 Hub from the linked sources. Follow the links above to read the full reporting at each outlet.