Verstappen takes United States GP lead on Lap 25 as Antonelli pits for hard tires

Max runs a two-stop plan after pitting early on Lap 14.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 1h1 min read

Verstappen is into the lead as Antonelli pits, but Max is on a two-stop strategy 👀 It's a fresh set of hard tyres for t Via @F1 on X

What happened: Max Verstappen cycled to the front of the United States Grand Prix on Lap 25 of 56 when pole-sitter Kimi Antonelli made his first pit stop. Mercedes fitted Antonelli with a fresh set of hard-compound tires after starting the race on mediums.

Why it matters: The stop splits the front-runners onto competing tire plans, as Mercedes kept Antonelli out on a one-stop strategy on Lap 17 while Verstappen committed to a two-stop run. Antonelli entered the Austin round able to clinch the 2026 FIA Formula One World Championship by outscoring teammate George Russell.

By the numbers: Antonelli led from pole after clocking a 1:35.015 in qualifying ahead of P2 starter Verstappen and P3 starter Isack Hadjar. Verstappen made his opening pit stop on Lap 14 before retaking track position on Lap 25 with 31 laps remaining at Circuit of the Americas.

What to watch: Verstappen still faces a second stop over the final 31 laps, giving Antonelli an opportunity to reclaim track position on his hard-tire stint.

Sources

@F1 2026-10-25T20:46:46.127542+00:00

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