Formula 1 Belgian GP: Antonelli takes victory as Russell retires on Lap 1
Kimi Antonelli strengthened his grip on the 2026 Formula One drivers' championship after claiming victory at the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps, extending his lead to 45 points over Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton. The Mercedes driver now sits 50 points clear of teammate George Russell, who dropped to third in the standings after retiring on the opening lap.
Starting from pole position, Antonelli made a strong getaway and eventually secured his sixth victory in 10 races this season. Although Ferrari's Charles Leclerc briefly took the lead by benefiting from a Virtual Safety Car pit stop, the Mercedes driver fought back and reclaimed the top spot with 10 laps remaining before taking the chequered flag.
Leclerc finished second, just 1.952 seconds behind Antonelli, while Max Verstappen completed the podium in third, handing Red Bull its 300th Formula One podium finish.
Starting from pole position, Antonelli made a strong getaway and eventually secured his sixth victory in 10 races this season. Although Ferrari's Charles Leclerc briefly took the lead by benefiting from a Virtual Safety Car pit stop, the Mercedes driver fought back and reclaimed the top spot with 10 laps remaining before taking the chequered flag.
Leclerc finished second, just 1.952 seconds behind Antonelli, while Max Verstappen completed the podium in third, handing Red Bull its 300th Formula One podium finish.
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