‘They helped me achieve this dream’ – Antonelli ‘grateful’ for Mercedes glory amid Brazil frustration

Although Kimi Antonelli felt “extremely disappointed” by his P5 finish at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, he was more than willing to shed those emotions in favour of celebrating Mercedes’ victory in the Constructors’ Championship.

Having clinched his own title a week ago in Mexico City, Antonelli arrived at Interlagos with a spring in his step, especially after he was confirmed to line up P2 for the race start.

He snatched the lead from polesitter Lando Norris and opened up a confident margin before pitting for slicks slightly later than his rivals, which left him vulnerable when the Briton closed the gap with his up-to-temperature soft tyres.

As Antonelli struggled for grip, he spun off at Turn 1 and watched Norris sail past, then reported that the car felt as though it was “steering by itself”.

Mercedes could find no clear issue, and although he temporarily moved back into first, he didn’t have the pace to stay there and had to settle for fifth behind team mate George Russell – a position he clung onto despite receiving a five-second time penalty for an unsafe release.

While it may not have been the win Antonelli was targeting, the result was still more than enough for the Silver Arrows to clinch their first teams’ title since 2021, prompting a heartfelt post-race celebration on the podium.

“I’m extremely disappointed with the race, but I’m going to put it aside, because today is a great day for the team,” Antonelli reflected. “They all deserve it, an incredible group of people.

“Not only here at the track, but everyone back at the factory – Brackley, Brixworth. They all deserve it, so I’m very happy for them.

“I’m very grateful to be part of this group, because they were the ones to help me to achieve this dream of mine. I’m very happy for them.”

Their achievement also marked the first time Mercedes have won both championships since 2020, which Antonelli hoped would put them on the front foot for the final triple header and fast-approaching 2027 season.

Asked whether he’s excited to have an opportunity to process the last two rounds, he replied: “Yeah, of course. I’m looking forward to it, and looking forward to the end of the season.

“I really want to finish on a high and hopefully come back… finish with a couple more wins, and finish the season on a high. All we want is to keep the momentum going, as well into 2027, and the goal is to keep being successful.”