Kimi Antonelli Says 2027 Title Defence Preparation Starts Now
Overview
Kimi Antonelli has started his 2027 title defence preparation just days after winning the Formula 1 championship in Mexico City. The 20-year-old Mercedes driver is the youngest champion in F1 history. He says a strong finish at the São Paulo Grand Prix will build confidence for next season.
Key Highlights
- Antonelli clinched the title in Mexico City last weekend, in only his second F1 season.
- He is the youngest champion in F1 history, by more than three years.
- He wore an Ayrton Senna tribute helmet at Interlagos this weekend.
- Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen lifted him onto their shoulders on the podium.
What Happened?
Speaking on media day at Interlagos on Thursday, Antonelli said he sees the closing races as the start of his 2027 title defence preparation. He called himself “very excited” to be in Brazil and said ending the season well would give him confidence for next year. The Sao Paulo Grand Prix runs from 6 to 8 November and is his first race since the title was settled.
Antonelli admitted the past few days have been a blur. He said he would have liked more time to sit down and take in what had happened, and that being world champion “still feels surreal”.
Why Is It Important?
At 20, Antonelli has little time to settle into the role before the demands of defending a title begin. Using the remaining races to build momentum shows how seriously he takes next season.
Impact and Implications
On Tuesday, Antonelli visited the family property of the late Ayrton Senna and sat in one of the three-time champion’s 1980s Lotus cars. His Senna tribute helmet will carry that link to the track on race weekend.
He also spoke warmly about the podium moment in Mexico, when Hamilton and Verstappen hoisted him up. He said he has already framed the picture and will hang it on his wall. He added that the gesture meant more because it was genuine, and he hopes to thank both drivers properly.
What Happens Next?
Antonelli races at Interlagos this weekend before the season ends. After that, his 2027 title defence preparation moves into the winter.