Six wins, six pole positions and the Formula 1 championship lead. While a year ago Kimi Antonelli faced one of his toughest weekends, he now claims a victory that mathematically keeps him on top for the summer break. The Belgian round, where last season he struggled with a rear suspension set‑up that never gave him confidence, shows how much the Mercedes driver has grown and why his aggressive style suits the 2026 cars.

Last season’s ground‑effect cars were stable yet unpredictable; flexible wings were critical for balance. When that balance broke, the car would snap without warning, a trait drivers noted. The switch from 13‑inch to 18‑inch tyres reduced side‑wall height, shrinking the contact patch and making corner entry harder. Pirelli’s Dario Marrafuschi explains the sudden loss of grip.

The 2026 cars have a more unstable rear, yet they feel easier and more predictable, allowing drivers to play with balance. Kimi Antonelli’s sharp, rapid steering and short corner radius fit this dynamic, while George Russell remains smoother and progressive.

The onboard shows a clear contrast; Andrea Stella notes the style difference impacts lap times, especially on tracks like Spa and Canada. Antonelli’s aggressive approach is proving highly effective with the new regulations.