Formula 1 heads to the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, this weekend (October 23–25) for the United States Grand Prix — Round 18 of 23. Mercedes’ Andrea Kimi Antonelli arrives with a 102-point championship lead, and every race now brings him closer to a first world title.
Standings before Austin
- Antonelli — 340 · Russell — 238 · Hamilton — 229 · Verstappen — 221 · Leclerc — 215
- Constructors: Mercedes 578, Ferrari 444, McLaren 339, Red Bull 332
The title maths
After Singapore, 150 points remained available to drivers across the final six rounds. With George Russell 102 points behind, Antonelli does not need to win in Austin — he simply needs to keep finishing ahead of, or close to, his nearest rivals. A strong weekend in Texas would put him in position to potentially clinch the championship in the following rounds in Mexico City or São Paulo.
Verstappen’s momentum
Max Verstappen won convincingly in Singapore and remains the driver most capable of winning on any given weekend. COTA’s mix of high-speed sweeps and heavy braking zones has historically suited him, and Red Bull will want to finish the season strongly in the constructors’ fight with McLaren.
Ferrari’s fight for second
Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc are separated by just 14 points, and Ferrari is comfortably second in the constructors’ standings. Both drivers will be eyeing the runner-up spot in the drivers’ championship, which remains wide open behind Antonelli.
Austin won’t decide the championship — but it could decide how soon it is decided.
What to watch
- Sprint format: Check the weekend schedule for any sprint sessions, which add extra points.
- Tyre management: COTA’s abrasive surface and warm Texas temperatures can punish rear tyres.
- Turn 1 chaos: The steep uphill first corner often reshapes the race on lap one.
Remaining calendar
Mexico City (October 30 – November 1), São Paulo (November 6–8), Las Vegas (November 19–21), then the final two rounds in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. Follow our Sports section for full coverage.