Antonelli’s São Paulo Surge Reshapes Mercedes Dynamic as Wolff Confirms 2026 Stay

Mercedes publicly reaffirms trust in the rookie with a commitment for next season.

Overview

Kimi Antonelli finished second in both the Sprint and the São Paulo Grand Prix, marking the best results of his F1 career.
Max Verstappen praised Antonelli on the Interlagos podium, urging him to keep believing through the rookie learning curve.
Toto Wolff said he never doubted Antonelli’s progress, confirmed he will remain with Mercedes next season, and highlighted improved energy management as pivotal in Brazil.
Antonelli said his relationship with George Russell is changing, noting Russell was not happy to finish behind him while maintaining mutual respect.
Looking to Las Vegas, Antonelli was hopeful but cautioned that the 2025 W16 is a different car, so last year’s Mercedes dominance there does not guarantee similar form.