Kimi Antonelli Dominates US GP, Closing in on 2026 Title as Red Bull Struggles

Kimi Antonelli converted a pole position into a dominant victory at the United States Grand Prix, leaving him on the verge of clinching the 2026 World Championship. While the Mercedes star celebrates a near-certain title coronation in Mexico City, the atmosphere at Red Bull has turned sour, with Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar openly criticizing their machinery.

Why it matters:

The 2026 season has witnessed a dramatic shift in the competitive hierarchy. Antonelli's rapid ascent to the top of the standings signals a changing of the guard, while Red Bull's visible struggle with the RB22 suggests the team is facing significant technical hurdles in the current regulation era. The gap between the frontrunners and the RB22 is no longer just about pace, but about fundamental drivability.

The details:

• Podium Finishers: Antonelli took a commanding win from pole, followed by Charles Leclerc in second and Max Verstappen in third.
• RB22 Frustrations: Both Red Bull drivers expressed strong dissatisfaction with the RB22's performance during the race weekend, citing issues that hindered their ability to challenge for the win.
• The 'Tequila' Comment: Despite the internal tension, Verstappen maintained a sense of humor, joking that Antonelli will likely be celebrating his imminent world championship victory with tequila at the next stop in Mexico.
• Championship Standing: Antonelli's victory has effectively sealed his lead, making the upcoming Mexico City Grand Prix a formality for the title crowning.

What's next:

All eyes now shift to the Mexico City Grand Prix, where Antonelli is expected to officially secure the world title. For Red Bull, the focus will be an urgent technical review of the RB22 to stop the bleed and regain competitiveness before the season concludes.