Kimi Antonelli strengthened his grip on the Formula One world championship with a commanding victory at the Belgian Grand Prix, taking full advantage after Mercedes teammate and closest title rival George Russell crashed out on the opening lap. Starting from pole position, the 19-year-old Italian briefly lost the lead to Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc during a Virtual Safety Car period but produced a decisive overtake with 10 laps remaining before pulling clear to secure his sixth victory of the season. Leclerc crossed the line second, while Max Verstappen completed the podium in third as Red Bull celebrated its 300th Formula One podium finish.

Russell’s early retirement, following contact with Lewis Hamilton, dealt a major blow to his championship challenge and allowed Antonelli to significantly extend his advantage at the top of the standings. Hamilton recovered to finish fourth despite receiving a time penalty and facing further scrutiny over an unsafe pit release, while Oscar Piastri, Isack Hadjar, Lando Norris, Gabriel Bortoleto, Arvid Lindblad, and Franco Colapinto rounded out the top 10. Antonelli’s latest triumph reinforces his status as the title favorite as the Formula One season enters its decisive phase