By Fatma Younis
Formula 1 arrives in Mexico City this weekend for the Mexican Grand Prix, where Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli stands on the verge of securing his first world championship. The 20-year-old Italian holds a commanding 123-point lead over teammate George Russell and a 124-point advantage over Lewis Hamilton following his victory at the United States Grand Prix in Austin.
Championship Scenario
Antonelli will be crowned champion on Sunday if he finishes ninth or higher at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez. Should he fail to reach that mark, Russell or Hamilton must win the race to keep the title fight alive until the Brazilian Grand Prix. In Austin, Antonelli dominated from pole position, while Ferrari's Charles Leclerc finished second and Red Bull's Max Verstappen third. Hamilton missed the podium, and an early penalty dropped Russell to eighth place.
Weekend Schedule
Track action begins with Free Practice 3 on Saturday, 31 October at 5:30 pm GMT, followed by qualifying at 9:00 pm GMT. The race is set for Sunday, 1 November at 8:00 pm GMT. All sessions take place at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, where Lando Norris claimed victory last year en route to his maiden title.
Home Return for Perez
Sergio Perez returns to his home Grand Prix after missing the 2025 edition. The Mexican driver arrives fresh off a new contract with Cadillac, adding further intrigue to the weekend's proceedings.
