Brief

Mexican Grand Prix grid reveals Antonelli poised for championship

Kimi Antonelli leads the grid with a points advantage that could secure his first world title if he finishes ninth or higher.

By Felo News Desk · Published Sun, 01 Nov 2026 06:22:06 GMT

Formula 1 returns to Mexico City for the Mexican Grand Prix on 1 November, with the starting grid published by the Independent. Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) occupies pole position, holding a 123‑point lead over teammate George Russell and a 124‑point advantage over Lewis Hamilton after his win in Austin.

What happened

The grid places Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) on the front row in first, followed by George Russell (Mercedes) in second and Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) third. Antonelli starts fourth, Max Verstappen (Red Bull) fifth, and Lando Norris (McLaren) sixth. Notable penalties have dropped Max Verstappen and Liam Lawson one place each after a clash in practice. The race is scheduled for 8 pm GMT on Sunday, 1 November.

What the reports add

The Independent notes that Antonelli will clinch the world championship if he finishes ninth or higher, while a lower finish would keep the title fight alive for Russell or Hamilton, who must win the race to extend the contest to the final round in Brazil. The article also mentions Sergio Perez returning to his home race after signing a new contract with Cadillac.

What was said

No direct quotations appear in the source.

How it came about

Antonelli’s pole position follows his victory in Austin, where he secured the championship lead highlighted in Felo’s earlier coverage of the United States Grand Prix pole (Antonelli leads United States GP grid and eyes championship in Austin).

Key facts

Kimi Antonelli starts on pole for the Mexican Grand Prix (independent.co.uk)
Antonelli holds a 123‑point lead over George Russell and a 124‑point lead over Lewis Hamilton (independent.co.uk)
The race is set for 8 pm GMT on Sunday 1 November (independent.co.uk)
Max Verstappen and Liam Lawson each received a one‑place grid drop after a practice clash (independent.co.uk)