Shock championship claim: Coulthard names the 2026 champion in advance

Former Formula 1 driver David Coulthard has responded to those who consider the achievements of 2026 season leader and Mercedes driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli to be a matter of chance.

TodayPress TV reports that he made the remarks on the Up to Speed podcast.

The Scottish expert described the results achieved by the young Italian as remarkable.

“Some people say that you make your own luck. He has found his optimal form in his second season in Formula 1 under the existing rules and regulations. Mercedes is giving him an excellent car — this is a team accustomed to winning. Antonelli continues to take risks, but somehow maintains his spatial awareness and does not damage his car even when he touches the wall at Turn 7.

The results speak for themselves. We can argue as much as we want about our favourite drivers, but in a world where everything is measured by statistics, he consistently gets through the sectors faster than most and sees the chequered flag. So, if you want, call him lucky. I call him a phenomenon. Unless there is an unexpected setback, he will be the Formula 1 world champion in 2026,” Coulthard said.

Namiq HUN