Max Verstappen's title-contender streak ends after US Grand Prix

Max Verstappen has been mathematically eliminated from the 2026 Formula 1 drivers' championship, bringing an end to a remarkable run of almost six years in which he remained in contention for the world title until the closing stages of a season. The Red Bull driver lost his last remaining chance following the United States Grand Prix in Austin, where Kimi Antonelli secured victory for Mercedes.

Verstappen started the race from second on the grid but could not keep pace with Antonelli, who controlled the race from pole position. The Dutchman eventually finished third, behind Ferrari's Charles Leclerc, as the championship leader strengthened his grip on the standings. Antonelli's ninth victory of the season moved him to within touching distance of his first world title.

Verstappen's elimination is particularly significant given his consistency over recent years. His title-contender run stretched back to the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix in 2020, covering 2,184 days. Although victories in Malaysia and Singapore had helped him remain in the fight longer than expected this season, the points gap ultimately became insurmountable.

The record highlights just how long Verstappen has remained among Formula 1's leading championship contenders. Lewis Hamilton enjoyed an even longer spell, remaining in contention from the Japanese Grand Prix in 2013 until the Italian Grand Prix in 2022, a run spanning 3,256 days. With Antonelli emerging as the leading force in 2026, the championship picture could be entering a new era.