Source: Official Team Post via X
2026 United States Grand Prix Grid: Antonelli Leads, Penalties Shake Up Order
Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli claims pole in Austin, while penalties shuffle the grid for several drivers. Red Bull's Max Verstappen joins him on the front row, with key rivals looking to prevent Antonelli from clinching the championship.
In Austin, the 2026 United States Grand Prix grid has been revealed with Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli on pole position, positioning him well to potentially secure the World Championship. Red Bull's Max Verstappen will line up alongside him, with his teammate Isack Hadjar in third. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc starts fourth, just ahead of his teammate Lewis Hamilton and Antonelli's own Mercedes cohort George Russell, both of whom are still in the title hunt.
The fourth row sees McLaren's Oscar Piastri and reigning World Champion Lando Norris, while Racing Bulls' Liam Lawson and Alpine's Pierre Gasly round out the top ten. Lawson originally qualified ninth, but a power unit penalty has relegated his teammate Arvid Lindblad to 14th.
Further down the grid, more penalties have reshuffled the order. Alpine's Franco Colapinto and Audi's Gabriel Bortoleto both face demotions due to power unit changes, starting in 20th and 21st respectively. Adding to the list of penalized drivers, Lance Stroll will start from the pit lane following modifications to his Aston Martin post-qualifying.
With the race set to commence at 3 PM local time, it's shaping up to be a pivotal event, especially for Antonelli, who could emerge as the new World Champion if things go his way. As the clock ticks down to lights out, fans are in for a thrilling showdown on American soil.