F1 2026 Standings After Round 2: Russell Leads as Mercedes Dominate Early Season

George Russell holds a commanding lead in the 2026 Formula 1 World Championship after two rounds, with Mercedes establishing themselves as the team to beat in F1’s new era.

Here are the current driver standings heading into the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka:

1. George Russell (Mercedes) — 51 points

2. Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) — 47 points

3. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) — 34 points

4. Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) — 33 points

5. Oliver Bearman (Haas) — 17 points

6. Lando Norris (McLaren) — 15 points

7. Pierre Gasly (Alpine) — 9 points

8. Max Verstappen (Red Bull) — 8 points

9. Liam Lawson (Racing Bulls) — 8 points

10. Arvid Lindblad (Racing Bulls) — 4 points

The 2026 season features massive regulation changes including new active aerodynamics and a revised hybrid power unit configuration. Three new engine manufacturers — Audi, Ford (partnered with Red Bull), and Honda (now supplying Aston Martin) — have entered the sport.

Russell won in Melbourne and claimed the Sprint victory in China, while Antonelli took the Chinese Grand Prix. Mercedes have secured every pole position and race win so far in 2026.

The next round after Japan will be the Miami Grand Prix on May 1-3, marking a five-week break in the calendar.