Antonelli becomes 2026 Formula 1 champion

Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, the Italian, became the 2026 Formula 1 World Champion with 4 races left in the season. Finishing third at the Mexico Grand Prix, the 20-year-old Antonelli earned the title of the youngest champion in Formula 1 history.

Antonelli was discovered by Mercedes officials when he was 11. He was closely followed during his karting years and in Formula's junior categories, and more than 10 million euros were invested in his development. He joined Mercedes' young driver programme in 2019, skipped Formula 3, and moved directly to Formula 2 in 2024. In 2025 he was signed by a Formula 1 team for the first time.

Taking over Lewis Hamilton's seat at the age of 18, Antonelli faced intense debate over whether the choice was right when he went 9 consecutive races without scoring points in his first season. He felt the pressure heavily during this period.

He started the 2026 season in second place at the Australian GP, behind teammate Russell. When he won his first Formula 1 race at the Chinese GP, all eyes turned to him. He finished on the top step of the podium again at the Japanese GP and became the youngest driver to take the lead in the championship. His wins at Miami, Canada and Monaco made him a title contender. He scored no points at Barcelona and Britain due to technical problems with his car, but he won the Belgian GP, sending a strong message to his rivals.

Starting 19th at the Monza GP after a change to his car, Antonelli passed his rivals and also overtook teammate Russell. He took a historic win in his home country of Italy. The podium finishes that followed opened a gap over Russell and carried Antonelli to the championship.