The F1 driver standings have taken another dramatic turn following the Hungarian Grand Prix, with Kimi Antonelli strengthening his grip on the 2026 Formula 1 World Championship. The Mercedes rookie continues to impress in his first full campaign, proving he has the pace and consistency to challenge the sport’s biggest names.
After another podium finish in Hungary, Antonelli increased his advantage over his closest rivals, while the battle for the remaining top positions remains incredibly competitive.
F1 Driver Standings After the Hungarian Grand Prix
According to the latest Formula 1 standings, the championship picture is as follows:
| Position | Driver | Team | Points* |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kimi Antonelli | Mercedes | 219 |
| 2 | Lewis Hamilton | Ferrari | 169 |
| 3 | George Russell | Mercedes | 160 |
| 4 | Charles Leclerc | Ferrari | 138 |
| 5 | Lando Norris | McLaren | 128 |
*Standings updated after the Hungarian Grand Prix.
Kimi Antonelli Continues Remarkable Rookie Campaign
Few expected Kimi Antonelli to become the championship favorite so quickly, but the Italian teenager has exceeded every expectation.
Driving for Mercedes, Antonelli has combined outright speed with maturity beyond his years. Multiple race victories and consistent podium finishes have allowed him to build a sizeable championship cushion heading into the second half of the season.
His third-place finish in Hungary proved especially valuable after several title rivals encountered setbacks, allowing him to extend his lead to around 50 points.
Hungarian Grand Prix Changes the Championship
The Hungarian Grand Prix proved crucial in shaping the F1 driver standings.
Lando Norris claimed McLaren’s first victory of the 2026 season after starting from pole position. Max Verstappen finished second, while Kimi Antonelli recovered brilliantly from seventh on the grid to secure third place.
Oscar Piastri looked capable of challenging for victory before suffering a late mechanical retirement, costing McLaren valuable championship points. Lewis Hamilton crossed the line fifth after receiving a pit-lane speeding penalty.
Mercedes Holds the Momentum
Mercedes has emerged as the benchmark team throughout much of the 2026 season.
Antonelli’s consistent performances, combined with George Russell’s regular points finishes, have helped Mercedes establish a strong position in both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships.
Ferrari remains the closest challenger thanks to Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, while McLaren continues to close the gap following Norris’ breakthrough victory in Hungary.
Can Anyone Catch Kimi Antonelli?
Although there are still several races remaining, Antonelli controls the championship battle.
Hamilton continues to search for another victory to reduce the deficit, while Russell, Leclerc, Norris and Verstappen remain mathematically in contention. However, Antonelli’s consistency has become his greatest strength, making him the driver everyone must beat during the remainder of the campaign.
If Mercedes maintains its current performance level, Antonelli could become one of Formula 1’s youngest world champions.
Final Thoughts
The F1 driver standings continue to evolve, but Kimi Antonelli has firmly established himself as the championship favorite. His composed performances, combined with Mercedes’ pace, have created a significant advantage heading into the next phase of the season.
With Lewis Hamilton, George Russell, Charles Leclerc and Lando Norris all determined to close the gap, Formula 1 fans can expect an exciting title fight over the remaining rounds. For now, though, Antonelli remains the man leading the championship race
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