Kimi Antonelli, the 20-year-old Mercedes driver, has a definitive opportunity to clinch the 2026 Formula 1 World Championship at the upcoming Mexican Grand Prix. He arrives in Mexico City with a substantial lead in the drivers’ standings, positioning him to become the youngest world champion in the sport’s history.
Antonelli currently holds 365 points, leading teammate George Russell by 123 points and Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton by 124 points. His ninth victory of the season at the United States Grand Prix in Austin placed him on the brink of securing the title.
To secure the championship in Mexico, Antonelli needs to score a minimum of two points. A ninth-place finish in the Grand Prix would be sufficient, regardless of the results achieved by Russell or Hamilton.
Should Antonelli finish tenth, he would still claim the title unless Russell wins the race. If Antonelli finishes outside the points, he would become champion if neither Russell nor Hamilton secures the victory.
The Italian driver’s nine race victories this season provide a crucial advantage. In the event of a points tie at the end of the championship, the driver with more wins is awarded the title.
After the Mexico City Grand Prix, four races will remain on the 2026 calendar: Brazil, Las Vegas, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi. A maximum of 100 points will be available across these final rounds.
Sebastian Vettel currently holds the record for the youngest Formula 1 World Champion. He achieved his first title in 2010 at the age of 23 years and 134 days.
Mercedes has made a significant investment in Antonelli’s career. Team Principal Toto Wolff confirmed that over $10 million has been spent on his development over nine years.
This extensive programme began when Antonelli was 11 years old, covering his progression through karting and junior categories. It also included approximately 9000 kilometres of Formula 1 testing.
Wolff has previously addressed criticism regarding Antonelli’s readiness for Formula 1 during his rookie season in 2025. He emphasised the long-term strategy behind the investment.
Antonelli’s base salary for the 2026 season is reported to be between $2 million and $3.4 million. However, a championship bonus could elevate his earnings to an estimated $10-11 million.
In contrast, George Russell’s annual salary at Mercedes is approximately $25 million.
Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc, and Lando Norris were mathematically eliminated from the 2026 title contention following the United States Grand Prix.
Verstappen qualified fifth for the Mexican Grand Prix and has encountered various issues during the race weekend.
Kimi Antonelli is on the verge of making Formula 1 history on Sunday, as the Italian could become the youngest-ever Formula 1 world champion at the 2026 Mexico City Grand Prix, with the Italian needing just two more points to secure his maiden Drivers’ Championship.
