The stage is set for an exciting showdown at the Miami Grand Prix, where rising star Kimi Antonelli will lead the field from pole position after delivering an exceptional qualifying performance. The young Mercedes driver continues to make headlines, securing his third consecutive pole—an achievement previously matched only by legends Ayrton Senna and Michael Schumacher.
Antonelli edged out reigning champion Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing by a narrow margin, underlining just how competitive the front of the grid has become. Verstappen will start alongside him on the front row, poised to challenge immediately when the lights go out.
Behind them, Charles Leclerc secured third place for Ferrari, lining up next to Lando Norris in fourth for McLaren. Both drivers showed strong pace in qualifying and will be aiming to capitalize on any opportunities at the front.
The third row features an all-star pairing, with George Russell starting fifth for Mercedes and his former teammate Lewis Hamilton—now driving for Ferrari—lining up in sixth. Their experience could prove decisive over the course of the 57-lap race.
Further down the order, Oscar Piastri endured a disappointing qualifying session and will begin from seventh, alongside Franco Colapinto in eighth for Alpine. Red Bull’s young talent Isack Hadjar starts ninth, while teammate Pierre Gasly rounds out the top ten.
Midfield battles are expected to be fierce, with experienced names such as Nico Hulkenberg, Carlos Sainz, and Esteban Ocon all looking to make progress. Meanwhile, young prospects including Oliver Bearman and Arvid Lindblad will aim to impress.
Toward the back, veteran Fernando Alonso faces a challenging start from 18th for Aston Martin, alongside teammate Lance Stroll. The grid is completed by the Cadillac duo of Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez, as well as Gabriel Bortoleto for Audi.
Although the grid remains provisional pending official confirmation from the FIA, anticipation is already building for what promises to be a thrilling race in Miami. Strategy, tire management, and potential weather factors could all play a crucial role in determining the outcome.
Full Starting Grid – 2026 Miami Grand Prix
Position Driver Team
1st Kimi Antonelli Mercedes
2nd Max Verstappen Red Bull
3rd Charles Leclerc Ferrari
4th Lando Norris McLaren
5th George Russell Mercedes
6th Lewis Hamilton Ferrari
7th Oscar Piastri McLaren
8th Franco Colapinto Alpine
9th Isack Hadjar Red Bull
10th Pierre Gasly Alpine
11th Nico Hulkenberg Audi
12th Liam Lawson Racing Bulls
13th Oliver Bearman Haas
14th Carlos Sainz Williams
15th Esteban Ocon Haas
16th Alex Albon Williams
17th Arvid Lindblad Racing Bulls
18th Fernando Alonso Aston Martin
19th Lance Stroll Aston Martin
20th Valtteri Bottas Cadillac
21st Sergio Perez Cadillac
22nd Gabriel Bortoleto Audi
With a mix of emerging talents and seasoned champions spread throughout the grid, the Miami Grand Prix is shaping up to be an unpredictable and highly competitive contest.
