F1 drivers share excitement for 2026 World Cup kickoff
Formula1.com • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 11, 2026, 3:07 PM
Last updated Jun 11, 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup begins today in Mexico City, capturing the attention of F1 drivers. Many are balancing their schedules between racing and the tournament, which features an expanded format with 48 teams. While most drivers, including Sergio Perez and Max Verstappen, have vested interests due to their countries' participation, Kimi Antonelli will watch without Italy in the tournament. The first matches coincide with F1 Grand Prix weekends, adding to the excitement for fans and participants.
- •2026 World Cup kicks off today in Mexico City
- •Sergio Perez plans to watch Mexico play in Guadalajara
- •19 of 22 F1 drivers have teams in the tournament
- •Kimi Antonelli supports Brazil and Messi during the event
- •F1 schedules coincide with multiple World Cup matches
"Plenty of people within F1 are excited about the start of the 2026 World Cup, and the drivers are no different..
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