Kimi Antonelli wins Belgian Grand Prix to extend Formula 1 title lead
Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli has extended his lead at the top of the Formula 1 drivers’ championship to 45 points following a commanding victory at the Belgian Grand Prix.
The 19-year-old secured his sixth win of the 2026 season on Sunday, establishing a formidable advantage over Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton with 10 of the 22 scheduled rounds completed.
His triumph at Spa-Francorchamps stands in stark contrast to the Italian’s rookie campaign just 12 months ago.
From rookie struggles to title favourite
Drafted into Mercedes by team principal Toto Wolff to replace the departing Hamilton in 2025, the teenager initially endured a turbulent introduction to the sport’s highest level.
He suffered a dismal run during the middle of last season, finishing above ninth place only once in a 10-race spell.
That difficult period culminated at last year’s Belgian Grand Prix, where he suffered a shock elimination in the first round of qualifying.
“Last year here, I probably reached the bottom, so it was a very difficult weekend for me mentally,”
“But this year was definitely a lot better. If you had asked me last year at this moment, I probably would have said no.”
Overcoming recent mechanical setbacks
The current championship leader’s advantage could be even more substantial had he not encountered recent misfortune.
An engine failure denied him a likely second-place finish behind Hamilton in Barcelona.
A subsequent wheel-guard issue at the British Grand Prix dropped him out of the points while he was hunting down Charles Leclerc for the race lead.
Despite these setbacks, his significant pace advantage over team-mate George Russell has cemented his status as the clear championship favourite.
Focus remains on the championship
The Mercedes prodigy is currently on course to become the youngest world champion in Formula 1 history.
However, he insists he is not taking his unprecedented position for granted as the paddock prepares for the upcoming Hungarian Grand Prix.
“I never want to relax too much,”
“Of course, it’s a great result and good redemption after last year because last year was a very dark moment for me and to get the win is very special.”
“But you can never relax because we have seen in the past how the situation can swing so quickly. So that’s why it’s important to really maximise and take every opportunity.”