Antonelli says Japanese GP was his turning point en route to maiden F1 title

Kimi Antonelli has described the Japanese Grand Prix as the turning point of his Formula 1 season, saying that victory gave him the belief he could become world champion.

The Mercedes driver clinched his maiden title in Mexico on Sunday, having taken nine wins and 16 podiums across the 2026 campaign, with four rounds still remaining at that point.

Antonelli has led the championship standings since the early stages of the season.