Kimi Antonelli will compete in the São Paulo Grand Prix as Formula 1’s newly crowned champion, allowing the Mercedes driver to approach the Interlagos race without the burden of chasing the title.
That freedom could help the Italian pursue his first victory at the Brazilian circuit. Antonelli finished second there in 2025, behind Lando Norris, and may now be able to race with greater calm as he seeks to improve on that result.
“He will relax now and it will be very fun to watch. Brazil is a great place for him,” said Bradley Lord, Mercedes’ deputy team principal, after Antonelli secured the championship at the Mexican Grand Prix.
Interlagos could also carry particular emotional significance because of Antonelli’s admiration for Ayrton Senna. The Italian has repeatedly identified the three-time world champion as an inspiration and uses car number 12 as a tribute to the Brazilian icon.
Before the 2025 São Paulo Grand Prix, Antonelli recalled watching old Formula 1 races from the 1990s and 2000s with his father. He said Senna stood out not only because of his ability as a driver, but also because of his personality both on and off the track.
Lord said Antonelli’s connection with Senna and Brazil could make the weekend especially moving for the Mercedes driver. The São Paulo Grand Prix is scheduled for Sunday, November 8, at the Interlagos circuit.
Sources: CNN Brasil.