What happened: Lando Norris praised Kimi Antonelli for executing an "incredible job" across the 2026 Formula 1 season, placing the Italian's campaign well clear of Mercedes teammate George Russell. That season-long form has carried Antonelli to the verge of a record-breaking world championship entering the United States Grand Prix weekend.

Why it matters: Since claiming his maiden Formula 1 victory at the Chinese Grand Prix in March, Antonelli has paced the championship fight for Mercedes. Both drivers enter the Austin weekend running the team's unified latest car specification after Russell drove an older package during the Singapore Grand Prix sprint.

What to watch: Antonelli can clinch the 2026 FIA Formula One World Championship at Circuit of the Americas this weekend if he outscores Russell.