Steiner sees path to glory for Antonelli – with one key condition

Guenther Steiner has thrown a bold prediction into the 2026 Formula 1 title fight, backing championship leader Kimi Antonelli to go all the way — but only if the Mercedes teenager can keep his nerve as the pressure intensifies. Speaking on The Red Flags Podcast, the former Haas team principal believes Antonelli is already taking the fight to teammate George Russell, but warns that momentum can turn violently on emotion.

Why it matters:

Antonelli’s rapid rise has reshaped the championship picture. With a 20-point lead over Russell after wins in China, Japan, and Miami, the 19-year-old is now the title favorite. But Steiner’s caution echoes a pattern seen before: young drivers can implode when the heat rises, as Oscar Piastri did last season.

The details:

• Steiner rates Russell highly but thinks “Kimi is slowly taking it away from him, if he can keep his cool.” He predicts Russell will end up as vice champion.
• The Italian flagged a key risk: “The thing which I mostly fear is that maybe he has some issues and then loses his cool… a little bit like Oscar did last year. He was well in command before the summer break, and after the break two things happened which he didn’t like, and he lost the championship.”
• Current standings after Miami: Antonelli 100, Russell 80, Leclerc 59, Norris 51. The next round is the Canadian Grand Prix, a track where Russell traditionally excels.
• Steiner emphasized that Antonelli’s talent is clear, but the championship is “maybe for him to lose” at this early stage.

What's next:

The Canadian GP will be a critical test. If Antonelli can handle the pressure on a circuit that suits his teammate, he could extend his lead. If not, Russell and the chasing pack – including Leclerc and Norris – will be ready to pounce. Steiner’s verdict: the title fight may ultimately hinge on who blinks first.