Sport: Motorsport Country: Global Category: Scores & Results

Kimi Antonelli leads F1 drivers' standings after wins in China and Japan

Motorsport.com • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 30, 2026, 12:52 PM

Last updated Aug 30, 2026

Kimi Antonelli leads F1 drivers' standings after wins in China and Japan

Summary

Kimi Antonelli has attributed his struggles during the 2025 Formula 1 season to his current success in 2026. The Mercedes driver has built a significant 59-point lead over teammate George Russell and Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton in the drivers' standings. Antonelli became the youngest driver to lead the championship after securing back-to-back victories in China and Japan. His performance suggests a strong adaptation following a challenging rookie year.

Source Links

Motorsport.com

By the Numbers

•Kimi Antonelli credits 2025 struggles for 2026 strength.
•He leads the drivers' standings by 59 points.
•Antonelli became the youngest championship leader in F1 history.
•He achieved consecutive wins in China and Japan.

Latest Updates

12:52 PMMotorsport.com — Kimi Antonelli credits 2025 struggles for stronger 2026 F1 campaign

What they're saying

"
Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli has credited his tricky rookie Formula 1 campaign in 2025 with making him mentally stronger in 2026. The Italian driver holds a 59-point lead over his team-mate George Russell and Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton in the drivers' standings. He became the youngest driver to lead the championship in his second season in the series after back-to-back wins in China and Japan ...Keep reading
— Motorsport.com

Related Teams & Leagues

Motorsport