Antonelli Closes on F1 Title as Russell Drops to 21st

Kimi Antonelli has a major opportunity to strengthen his position in the 2026 Formula One drivers' championship at the Singapore Grand Prix, where he starts fourth while closest rival George Russell begins from 21st after a power unit penalty. According to The Guardian, the Mercedes driver's position gives Antonelli a chance to extend his advantage as the season approaches its decisive stages. Antonelli needs 100 points to secure the championship, according to The Guardian's race coverage.

Lewis Hamilton remains another potential challenger, starting third for Ferrari, but trails Antonelli by 104 points with only one race victory this season. Russell's penalty for taking a new power unit has pushed him down the grid, leaving him with ground to recover. The provisional starting order also places Hamilton ahead of Antonelli, while Max Verstappen starts from pole position after winning Saturday's sprint and securing the top qualifying spot.

Verstappen enters the race seeking to recover from a difficult season with Red Bull. His recent results, including the sprint victory and pole position, have put him in a strong position to challenge for another win at the Singapore circuit.

The Guardian reported that Verstappen's car had begun showing improved performance ahead of the race. A strong start could help him maintain the lead, although the outcome will depend on how the race unfolds. The Singapore Grand Prix is scheduled to start at 8 p.m. local time, equivalent to 1 p.m. British Summer Time, according to The Guardian.