Antonelli wins 2026 Belgian Grand Prix: Leclerc second, Verstappen third

Kimi Antonelli claimed a statement victory at the 2026 Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps, Round 10 of the season, bouncing back in style and extending his championship lead.

The Mercedes driver started from pole position (his sixth of the season) and managed the race with authority, despite losing track position to Charles Leclerc after a pit stop just before a mid-race Virtual Safety Car, as reported by [Formula1.com](https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/belgium-lowdown-all-the-key-moments-as-antonelli-returns-to-glory-and-russell-endures-heartbreak.5R3MMcMUQQW59iFcR7vOX7).

Ferrari executed a strategy masterclass, using the VSC to pit Leclerc and rejoin ahead. However, Antonelli fought back in the closing laps, overtaking the Monegasque to retake the lead and take the chequered flag.

It was a race to forget for fellow Mercedes driver George Russell, who was forced into retirement on the opening lap after colliding with Lewis Hamilton at Les Combes. "It's one thing after another," said a frustrated Russell, as covered by [BBC Sport](https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/articles/cevmymn2kd8o).

Max Verstappen completed the podium in third place for Red Bull. The result gives Antonelli a commanding 45-point advantage over Lewis Hamilton in the Drivers' Championship, with Russell now 50 points adrift.

Leclerc confirmed his resurgent form after winning the British Grand Prix, proving he can fight for victory at Spa as well.

Sources

• Formula 1
• BBC Sport