Antonelli clocks 1:35.015 to open United States GP qualifying

George Russell sits third, 0.366 seconds back.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 5h1 min read

Kimi is PUSHING as the Mercedes duo begin their Qualifying runs! 💨 It's a 1:35.015 from Antonelli, with George Russell Via @F1 on X

What happened: Kimi Antonelli and George Russell began their Saturday qualifying runs for Mercedes at the Circuit of the Americas, building on Friday's opening practice session where Russell placed fourth and Antonelli finished fifth.

Why it matters: The 20-year-old Antonelli enters the Austin weekend leading Russell by 102 points in the standings and seals the 2026 title if he outscores his teammate. Mercedes arrived at the Circuit of the Americas with Antonelli also in position to break Sebastian Vettel's record as Formula 1's youngest champion.

By the numbers: Qualifying opening run: Antonelli 1:35.015; Russell +0.366s (P3). Austin FP1 results: Russell P4, Antonelli P5. Championship standings margin: Antonelli points over Russell.

What to watch: Qualifying concludes at the Circuit of the Americas to determine the grid for Sunday's United States Grand Prix.

Sources

@F1 2026-10-24T18:13:47.221152+00:00

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