Five storylines set to shape the 2026 United States GP

The 2026 United States Grand Prix opens a new triple-header after a week away, with Circuit of The Americas hosting Round 18. Kimi Antonelli could clinch the Drivers’ Championship, but the title arithmetic is only one of several storylines heading into Austin.

Antonelli needs a win — and help from his rivals

The Mercedes driver’s first title opportunity comes in just his second Formula 1 season. He must win on Sunday to keep the possibility alive in Austin. Even then, George Russell needs to finish ninth or lower, while Lewis Hamilton must not place higher than fifth.

That combination is possible, though far from certain. The title implications make every position around Mercedes’ leading contenders significant. Read more about Antonelli’s championship prospects and his championship-focused decisions.

Verstappen’s winning run faces a development test

Max Verstappen has won the last two Grands Prix and the Singapore Sprint, taking him to fourth in the standings. He is 119 points behind Antonelli, leaving only a slim title hope: he must avoid losing six or more points to the Italian.

His recent results have come across a range of circuits, but Red Bull’s form is not the only factor. McLaren plans to bring further upgrades to Austin, while development across the field continues. Mercedes, meanwhile, has not confirmed new parts for this weekend and will use its three practice sessions to better understand the upgrade introduced in Malaysia.

Ferrari's new floor

Ferrari is expected to bring a new floor to the United States Grand Prix as part of its fourth upgrade package of the 2026 season, despite having shifted much of its development focus to next year.

Ferrari’s aim is to generate the same or greater downforce while allowing a slightly less stiff set-up, widening the range in which the car can operate effectively.

Haas’s 2027 line-up gains a new name

Rafael Camara, currently leading the Formula 2 championship, will join Haas next year on a multi-year deal. He is expected to partner Ollie Bearman in 2027.

Camara has won titles in Formula Regional European Championship and Formula 3, and a test in a previous car at Portimao this summer helped convince Haas he was ready for the opportunity.

Austin brings a major crowd and a new talking point

Almost every race weekend can be classified as a big event given the number of sell-out crowds seen this season, but a trip to Circuit of The Americas has regularly delivered one of the biggest attendances of the year in recent times.

COTA’s elevation, fast first sector and overtaking opportunities make it a demanding test, while strategy can leave the finish in doubt. The weekend will also give drivers their first chance to react to the announced addition of the African Grand Prix in Rwanda to the calendar.