Kimi Antonelli Shines in Japan: Winners and Losers of the 2026 F1 Japanese Grand Prix

The Formula 1 race at Suzuka in 2026 was an unforgettable event, full of surprises and unexpected turns from the start. The competition, which took place at the Suzuka circuit, began with chaos on the first lap, followed by a shocking accident that forced the intervention of the Safety Car. These events set the tone for a race full of emotions and changing strategies.

Three races into the 2026 season, the storylines are already taking shape. The results of the Japanese Grand Prix revealed key winners and losers, with a young driver setting new records and challenging expectations. The competition on the track and the teams' strategies created an exciting narrative for Formula 1 fans.

Kimi Antonelli, a Mercedes driver, had a complicated start, losing positions quickly. However, he knew how to take advantage of the Safety Car intervention after an accident involving Oliver Bearman, which allowed him to position himself advantageously. From that moment on, Antonelli not only survived, but dominated the race, crossing the finish line with a lead of almost 14 seconds over Oscar Piastri.

With this victory, Antonelli, at 19 years, 6 months and 25 days old, became the youngest driver to lead the Formula 1 world championship, surpassing Lewis Hamilton's record. He leads the championship with a nine-point advantage over his teammate, George Russell. The season is long, but the young driver has shown his worth.

Oscar Piastri, after a season start with problems, including an accident in Australia and a mechanical failure in China, achieved a remarkable second place in the Japanese Grand Prix. Piastri made an excellent start from third position, leading the race for much of the afternoon. This result marked McLaren's first podium of the season, demonstrating the potential of the team and the driver.

Piastri, despite not having competed in the first two races, is in sixth position in the championship, demonstrating his ability and the good performance of his car. The McLaren team, with their performance in Suzuka, has shown that they are ready to compete for important positions.

Charles Leclerc, of Ferrari, secured third place in a race where the pressure was high and the competition fierce. Leclerc had to defend his position against George Russell in the final laps, demonstrating his skill and the evolution of Ferrari. Although third place doesn't always feel like a victory, Leclerc valued this result given the circumstances.

Ferrari remains in second place in the constructors' standings, 45 points behind Mercedes after three races. Despite the distance, the team demonstrates that it has potential and Leclerc is key to keeping Ferrari in the fight.

Max Verstappen, of Red Bull, had a complicated race in the Japanese Grand Prix, qualifying in 11th position. This forced him to move up positions in a race where strategy and starting position were crucial. Although he managed to advance to eighth place, he could not surpass Pierre Gasly, who prevented him from gaining more positions.

Verstappen is in ninth position in the championship, behind Bearman and Gasly. Red Bull has 16 points after three races. The four-time champion has hinted at the possibility of retiring from F1 if things don't improve. The five-week break before Miami gives teams time to regroup.