Kimi Antonelli leads F1 after hot start, eyes on second half
Kimi Antonelli has stunned observers by holding the drivers' lead in the 2026 Formula 1 season. The 24-year-old Italian entered the summer break with a commanding 50-point edge over Lewis Hamilton and a 59-point lead over George Russell.
After taking second in the opening race in Australia, Antonelli delivered five consecutive wins. That streak was interrupted by car troubles at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya and Silverstone. He rebounded with a win at Spa-Francorchamps and added a strong podium in the Hungarian GP.
Antonelli acknowledged the unexpected success. 'I didn't expect to be in this spot,' he said. 'The car was strong, the team worked well, and I tried to make the most of each chance.' The Mercedes driver insisted the job is far from done. 'There's still work to do, but the first half has been good.'
Berger warns against picking the 2026 title winner too soon
Despite Antonelli's dominance, former F1 driver Gerhard Berger remains cautious. He compared the situation to last season's championship race, where Oscar Piastri appeared to be leading mid-season only for Norris to turn the tables and claim the title. Berger told F1.com: 'I don't think it's wise to bet on who will be champion yet.'
He believes both Antonelli and Russell have their strengths. 'One is young and hot-headed, the other is more experienced and will push back,' Berger said. 'The title battle is still wide open. It won't be decided until the last race.'