Kimi Antonelli can become Formula 1's youngest world champion in Austin after securing a surprise pole position ahead of Max Verstappen.
Kimi Antonelli stands on the brink of motorsport history at the United States Grand Prix in Austin, where he has the chance to become Formula 1's youngest world champion on Sunday.
The young Mercedes driver delivered a stunning performance on Saturday at the Circuit of the Americas, claiming a surprise pole position by 0.179 seconds ahead of Red Bull rival Max Verstappen.
According to information published by BBC, Antonelli will seal the championship if he wins the race while teammate George Russell finishes lower than eighth and Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton places below fourth.
How Kimi Antonelli can win the Formula 1 title in Austin
Coming into the weekend, Antonelli insisted he wanted to maintain the same race-by-race mindset he has used all year. However, the Italian driver acknowledged that this particular weekend feels different.
Despite the enormous stakes, Antonelli admitted he is actually enjoying his driving more than usual. He is supported in Austin by a close group of friends who help him stay relaxed by playing cards in the evenings.
Qualifying shock at the Circuit of the Americas
Antonelli's pole position came as a surprise after Ferrari and Red Bull initially looked like the teams to beat. Charles Leclerc struggled with his tyres as temperatures dropped during the final session.
Meanwhile, Max Verstappen also lost crucial grip in the closing moments of qualifying. Despite this setback, the four-time world champion praised Antonelli and noted that the young driver's stellar season makes the championship an inevitability.
Breaking records and turning around a difficult season
If Antonelli clinches the title on Sunday, he will be 20 years and 61 days old, shattering the record previously held by Sebastian Vettel, who was 23 years old when he won his first title in 2010.
This historic achievement follows a remarkable turnaround from a challenging debut season in 2025. Antonelli has roared back with eight victories in 17 races this year, cementing his status as a generational talent for Mercedes.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can Kimi Antonelli win the F1 world championship?
Kimi Antonelli can win the Formula 1 world championship on Sunday at the United States Grand Prix in Austin if he wins the race and his rivals finish outside the required points positions.
How old is Kimi Antonelli compared to Sebastian Vettel's record?
If Kimi Antonelli wins the title in Austin, he will be 20 years and 61 days old, beating Sebastian Vettel's record as the youngest world champion by more than three years.
Who secured pole position for the United States Grand Prix?
Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli secured a surprise pole position for the United States Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas, beating Red Bull's Max Verstappen by 0.179 seconds.
