F1 2026 Japanese GP: Antonelli Wins, Takes Championship Lead

Suzuka delivered a Sunday to remember. Kimi Antonelli sealed victory at the Japanese Grand Prix, becoming the youngest-ever championship leader after a commanding drive to claim his second consecutive win, ahead of Oscar Piastri and Charles Leclerc. The occasion was as spectacular as the result — more than 300,000 fans attended across the three days, setting a new Japanese Grand Prix attendance record.

Hollywood Comes to Suzuka

Before a wheel turned in anger, the grid walk produced one of the most memorable scenes of the season. The cast of the Super Mario Galaxy film arrived directly from the Japanese premiere — Chris Pratt, Jack Black, Anya Taylor-Joy, Keegan-Michael Key, Brie Larson and Charlie Day all walked the grid as the paddock buzzed with excitement. Jack Black was given the honour of waving the chequered flag at race end. Japanese rock icon Yoshiki performed a drum solo before the national anthem. Princess Akiko of the Imperial Family attended. Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda was present. This was Suzuka operating at its absolute peak.

Race: Piastri Leads, Antonelli Recovers, Safety Car Decides Everything

When the lights went out, Piastri made a stunning start to seize the lead into Turn 1 while both Mercedes cars slipped backwards. Antonelli dropped from pole position to sixth on the opening lap as Mercedes’ start woes continued. Leclerc moved to second, with Russell recovering quickly through the field.

Russell challenged Piastri for the lead, though was unable to make a move stick. By lap 22, the race turned on a single moment. Bearman was caught out by the closing speed behind Alpine’s Franco Colapinto, losing control over the grass and slamming sideways into the barriers in a 50G impact that brought out the Safety Car. The British driver was assisted away before he slumped to the floor and was taken to the medical centre, where X-rays confirmed a right knee contusion. Haas later confirmed no fractures.

With the trio running ahead of him — Piastri, Russell and Leclerc — having already pitted, Antonelli was afforded a much quicker stop under the Safety Car, giving the Italian the lead upon the restart. Russell, who yelled “unbelievable” after changing tyres just moments before the race-changing Safety Car, now trails Antonelli by nine points.

From the restart, Antonelli was untouchable. He ultimately crossed the line 13.7 seconds clear of Piastri. Leclerc held Russell at bay for third. Norris finished fifth, Hamilton sixth, Gasly seventh, Verstappen eighth.

Aston Martin Finally Finish a Race — Just

Aston Martin finished a race for the first time in 2026, with Fernando Alonso coming home eighteenth and a lap down, while Lance Stroll retired with a suspected water pressure issue. Progress, of a kind. Honda’s home race ended without a points finish for their works partner. The Suzuka crowd cheered them regardless.

Antonelli: The Youngest Championship Leader in F1 History

Antonelli’s nine-point advantage over Russell makes the 19-year-old the youngest driver to lead the world championship in the sport’s history, with Lewis Hamilton having previously held the record after first topping the standings at the age of 22 in 2007.

At 19 years and 216 days, the Italian becomes the first teenager to win back-to-back races. Formula One now breaks for five weeks until Miami. The momentum, unmistakably, belongs to one driver.

Who won the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix?

Kimi Antonelli won the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix for Mercedes, his second consecutive victory of the season following his win in China.

Who leads the 2026 F1 championship after the Japanese Grand Prix?

Kimi Antonelli leads the Drivers’ Championship by nine points over Mercedes team-mate George Russell, becoming the youngest championship leader in Formula One history.

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