Our verdict on Antonelli's win and Russell's big title blow

Kimi Antonelli won the 2026 Belgian Grand Prix at Spa, extending his Formula 1 championship lead from 25 to 45 points over his Mercedes teammate George Russell. Russell endured a difficult weekend that was described as a new low for his season, leaving him uncertain whether his struggles stem from personal performance or car issues. The Race's verdict praised Antonelli's dominant victory, which had appeared inevitable since Friday practice, while criticizing the overall race as deeply underwhelming under the 2026 regulations.