By Basant El-Faramawy
Italian driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli clinched the 2026 Formula 1 world championship at the Mexican Grand Prix on Sunday, becoming the youngest title winner in the sport's history at 20 years old. He secured the crown with four races remaining on the calendar after finishing third and scoring 15 points, mathematically eliminating his remaining rivals.
Record-breaking achievement
Antonelli broke the previous record held by Sebastian Vettel, who was 23 when he won his first championship in 2010. He also became Italy's first F1 world champion since Alberto Ascari in 1953. "We did it! Thank you so much," an emotional Antonelli said on team radio after the race. "I'm very grateful for this moment... I'm speechless."
Dominant season
The Mercedes driver won nine of the 19 races held so far in 2026, consistently outperforming his veteran teammate George Russell. Antonelli took the championship lead at the third race and never relinquished it, building a 68-point advantage after six rounds. Despite some mid-season setbacks, he maintained his lead to secure the title in Mexico.
Rivalry with Russell
Russell began the season as the betting favorite after winning the opening race in Australia, but Antonelli won the next five races to establish himself as the clear favorite. Russell finished sixth in Mexico after a 10-second penalty for a crash, ending his title hopes. "The truth is he's been at a higher level than me this year," Russell told reporters. Former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner described Antonelli as "a 20-year-old with the mind of a 30-year-old experienced F1 driver."
Technical adaptation
The 2026 regulation changes, featuring less downforce and greater reliance on electrical power, suited Antonelli's aggressive braking and cornering style. He proved more comfortable driving at the limit with a loose-handling car, while Russell's smoother approach consumed more tire life and battery power. The defining moment came at the Italian Grand Prix, where Antonelli started 19th and hunted down Russell to win.
Championship standings
Max Verstappen won the Mexican Grand Prix, with Lewis Hamilton second for Ferrari. Antonelli's triumph leaves Russell, Hamilton, Verstappen and Charles Leclerc battling for second place in the standings. Russell said finishing second matters less than building momentum for a title challenge next year.
