Kimi Antonelli Clinches F1 Spanish GP 2026: Max Verstappen Takes 2nd, Lando Norris Finishes 3rd

Madrid witnessed a historic day for Formula 1 as Mercedes' rising star Andrea Kimi Antonelli clinched a dominant victory at the inaugural Spanish Grand Prix held at the spectacular new Madring circuit. The Italian driver, starting from second on the grid, delivered a masterful performance to cross the finish line ahead of Red Bull's Max Verstappen and McLaren's Lando Norris, further solidifying his position at the top of the Drivers' Championship. The win marks a significant moment for the 20-year-old in his impressive 2026 campaign. Former Formula 1 Chief Bernie Ecclestone Detained in Portugal Over Shotgun Found in Luggage: Reports.

Kimi Antonelli Clinches F1 Spanish GP 2026

Race Highlights

The highly anticipated race at the 5.414 km, 22-turn Madring circuit, located within the IFEMA Madrid Exhibition Centre, delivered immediate drama from the outset. McLaren's Lando Norris, the reigning World Champion, started from pole position after a stunning qualifying lap, just 0.011 seconds ahead of Antonelli. However, Antonelli's race pace proved superior, allowing him to strategically manage the race and ultimately overtake Norris. Max Verstappen, demonstrating Red Bull's fighting spirit despite their early season struggles under new regulations, navigated the challenging street circuit to secure a crucial second place. Norris, who entered the season as the defending champion using car number 1, battled hard to hold onto a podium finish, taking third.

Championship Battle Heats Up

Antonelli's victory at Round 14 of the 2026 F1 World Championship further extends his lead in the drivers' standings. Heading into the Madrid race, Antonelli already held a 66-point advantage over his closest rival, Mercedes teammate George Russell, after a remarkable fightback victory at Monza. Lando Norris, despite his pole position, was 96 points adrift of Antonelli before Sunday's race, emphasising the significant challenge he faces to defend his title. Verstappen, a four-time world champion, confirmed earlier this week that he had held talks with Mercedes and McLaren before extending his Red Bull contract through 2030, highlighting his commitment to rebuilding the team through their current difficulties. Lando Norris Extends McLaren F1 Contract Until 2030.

F1 Standings

The New Madring Circuit

The 2026 Spanish Grand Prix marked a new era for the event, with the F1 circus moving from the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya to the newly constructed Madring circuit in Madrid. The hybrid street circuit, which officially opened in August 2026, is designed to be one of the most accessible F1 venues, offering fans easy access via public transport from the city centre. The circuit boasts a capacity of 110,000, with plans for expansion, positioning it as one of the largest venues on the F1 calendar.

Today's victory in Madrid underscores Antonelli's exceptional talent and the formidable challenge he presents in the 2026 championship battle, setting the stage for an electrifying remainder of the season.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 13, 2026 08:36 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).