F1 2026 Japanese GP: Antonelli Secures Back-to-Back Victory and Takes Championship Lead

The Formula 1 Japonya Grand Prix delivered an action-packed race, with Kimi Antonelli emerging victorious. The Mercedes driver claimed his second consecutive win, finishing ahead of Oscar Piastri and Charles Leclerc, who completed the podium.

The race began with a delayed formation lap due to barrier repairs following an earlier incident in a support series. When the lights went out, Mercedes drivers struggled off the line, allowing Oscar Piastri to seize the lead with an impressive старт. Charles Leclerc followed in second place, setting the stage for an intense opening phase.

Kimi Antonelli quickly made progress through the field, showcasing strong pace. His teammate George Russell briefly took the lead on lap eight, but Piastri responded and reclaimed the position, leading to a thrilling battle between the two.

Pit stop strategies played a crucial role in shaping the outcome. A safety car was deployed after Oliver Bearman crashed on lap 22, giving teams an opportunity to reshuffle positions. Mercedes capitalized on this moment, allowing Antonelli to move into the lead.

After the restart, Antonelli maintained control at the front. Lewis Hamilton moved up the order by overtaking Russell, while battles intensified behind. In the closing stages, Charles Leclerc overtook Hamilton to secure a podium position.

Despite pressure from Russell in the final laps, Leclerc held on to third place. Lando Norris climbed to fifth after passing Hamilton. At the end of the 53-lap race, Antonelli crossed the finish line first, claiming back-to-back victories and taking the lead in the championship standings.

Oscar Piastri finished second, marking his first race finish of the season, while Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc completed the podium. George Russell finished fourth, followed by Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton. The top ten was rounded out by Pierre Gasly, Max Verstappen, Liam Lawson, and Esteban Ocon.

With this result, Kimi Antonelli strengthens his position as a rising star and a leading contender in the 2026 championship battle.