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Russell and Hamilton Concede F1 Title Race as Antonelli Dominates

Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli has built a commanding lead in the F1 championship after 14 grands prix. Both George Russell and Lewis Hamilton have publicly admitted that their chances of fighting for the title are no longer realistic.

Russell and Hamilton Concede F1 Title Race as Antonelli Dominates

Automatically summarised by AI from Autosport

Kimi Antonelli is demonstrating dominant form at the top of the Formula 1 championship standings after 14 grands prix. Recent victories in Monza and Madrid have allowed the Mercedes driver to build an 81-point advantage over his team-mate George Russell. Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton trails by 101 points and Lando Norris is 106 points behind.

Following the race in Madrid, George Russell admitted that it is exceptionally unlikely he remains in the championship fight. The British driver stated he is no longer focusing on the title race, choosing instead to take a race-by-race approach to win as many events as possible. To maintain its strong position, Mercedes plans to bring significant car upgrades to Malaysia in two weeks.

Meanwhile, Ferrari has lost crucial points due to race execution issues and mechanical failures, including a brake failure for Lewis Hamilton at the start of the Spanish Grand Prix. Hamilton praised Mercedes for doing a phenomenal job and conceded defeat in the standings. Despite the gap, Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur and McLaren vowed to push forward with car upgrades, while reigning champion Lando Norris acknowledged Antonelli's impressive performances and lack of mistakes.

Motorsport · Autosport · Published 18:40 · 15 Sept 2026

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