How Kimi Antonelli can clinch his maiden F1 championship in Mexico

Kimi Antonelli holds a slim chance of clinching his first Formula 1 championship at the upcoming Mexican Grand Prix, following his narrowly missed title victory in Austin. The 20-year-old secured his ninth win of the season by setting pole position at the United States Grand Prix, but Lewis Hamilton's fourth-place finish and George Russell's eighth prevented the title from being secured at that point.

To win the championship in Mexico, Antonelli must finish within the top nine positions on Sunday. Regardless of Russell and Hamilton's results, this scenario would be sufficient for a championship win. With four races remaining after Mexico, Antonelli must accumulate at least 100 points to surpass his rivals, Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc, Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri, and others.

Even if Russell triumphs in Mexico, leaving Antonelli just 100 points behind, Antonelli would still claim the title on countback, given his existing nine wins against Russell's three. If Antonelli fails to score in Mexico, he would retain the title as long as neither Russell nor Hamilton secure victory at the race. In summary, Antonelli's path to the championship remains a near-impossible feat, requiring a combination of strong performances and favorable outcomes for his competitors.