Kimi Antonelli wins Japanese Grand Prix and takes championship lead

On March 29, 2026, Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli won the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka, marking his second consecutive victory after his win in China. Despite starting from pole position, the 19-year-old Italian initially dropped to sixth place following a poor start. He capitalized on a mid-race safety car period to execute a pit stop, which allowed him to regain the lead and secure the win. With this result, Antonelli became the youngest driver in Formula 1 history to lead the world championship standings. Oscar Piastri finished second, and Charles Leclerc completed the podium in third. Other points finishers included Lando Norris, Pierre Gasly, Max Verstappen, Liam Lawson, and Esteban Ocon. The next race of the 2026 season is scheduled for May 1-3 in Miami.