Japanese Grand Prix LIVE! Latest updates as Kimi Antonelli leads after Ollie Bearman crashes
Why it matters: Mercedes' early season dominance and Antonelli's rise challenge Verstappen's reign, signaling a potential power shift in F1.
- Kimi Antonelli leads the Japanese Grand Prix from pole position, with teammate George Russell alongside him, setting Mercedes up for a potential third consecutive win of the 2026 season.
- Max Verstappen starts a distant 11th after a Q2 exit, expressing 'beyond frustrated' feelings, making a fifth consecutive win at Suzuka an 'extraordinary' challenge.
- Suzuka Circuit, known for its unique 'figure-of-eight' layout and demanding corners like the 'Esses', Spoon, and 130R, hosts the third grand prix of the season.
- Antonelli previously broke records at Suzuka in 2025, becoming the youngest driver to set a fastest lap and lead a race at just 18 years old.
Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli leads the Japanese Grand Prix from pole, poised to extend Mercedes' dominant start to the 2026 Formula 1 season, while reigning champion Max Verstappen faces an uphill battle from 11th after a 'frustrating' qualifying session. This race marks a potential shift in power, as Antonelli, who set records in Japan last year, aims for his third consecutive win, challenging Verstappen's four-year winning streak at Suzuka.
