Kimi Antonelli leads Japanese GP after Bearman crash
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- 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.
Why it matters: Mercedes' early season dominance and Antonelli's rise challenge Verstappen's reign, signaling a potential power shift in F1.
