Antonelli takes US pole on weekend he can win title

Kimi Antonelli took pole position for the United States Grand Prix in Austin, beating Max Verstappen by 0.179 seconds. The Mercedes driver could secure his first Formula 1 world title on Sunday, but only if he wins and his title rivals finish outside specified positions.

Isack Hadjar qualified third, ahead of Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, while George Russell will start sixth. Antonelli’s pole was unexpected after Ferrari led all three practice sessions; McLaren also struggled, with Lando Norris’s fastest lap deleted for a track-limits breach. Antonelli said he would aim for a strong start, while Verstappen reported a lack of grip in the final qualifying session.