The first point of the title race was not used, but Andrea Kimi Antonelli will have another chance next Sunday in Mexico, which could be truly decisive. This time, the Mercedes driver from Bologna will only need to not lose too many points to the only two rivals left in the race, George Russell and Lewis Hamilton, to be declared Formula 1 world champion. This is different from what should have happened in Austin, where he had to gain some points. Moreover, the two British drivers are forced to win.
With five races remaining in the season, AKA12 has a 123-point lead over Russell and 124 over Hamilton. The 20-year-old has accumulated 365 points so far, while his teammate remains on 242 points and Hamilton on 241 points.
One. Step. Away. 🚶 #F1 #USGP https://t.co/aQjkNtsucK
— Formula 1 (@F1) October 26, 2026
After the race in Mexico, there will be 100 points left to play for. Antonelli would only need to leave North America with a 100-point advantage to become unassailable, as he has more victories, nine in total, than his other two rivals.
In short, in exactly one week, Antonelli could win a historic world title, returning an Italian driver to the top of world motorsports after a wait that has lasted since 1953, when Alberto Ascari triumphed with the Ferrari 500 F2.
Proof that Kimi is hard to keep up with! 🏃🙌 #F1 #USGP https://t.co/snCtxkqezJ
— Formula 1 (@F1) October 26, 2026
Surprise scenario
If, however, the planned races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi were cancelled due to developments in the Middle East and only one of them were replaced with the race in Imola, Antonelli could mathematically secure the title even without taking to the track.
Antonelli is declared champion in Mexico if:
- If Russell or Hamilton don't win the race, Antonelli can celebrate regardless of the position in which he finishes it.
- If Russell wins the race, Antonelli should finish at least ninth.
- If Hamilton wins the race, Antonelli should finish at least tenth.
Kimi Antonelli extends his Drivers' Championship lead, and one point splits George Russell and Lewis Hamilton... 👀 The Drivers' Standings are in from Austin 📈👇 #F1 #USGP https://t.co/lg6ok45SJY
— Formula 1 (@F1) October 25, 2026
HERE IS THE UPDATED WORLD CLASSIFICATION
Upcoming Formula 1 races
- Mexican Grand Prix: October 30 – November 1
- Brazilian Grand Prix: November 6–8
- Las Vegas Grand Prix: November 20–22
- Qatar Grand Prix: November 27–29
- Abu Dhabi Grand Prix: December 4–6
