Newly crowned Formula 1 World Champion Kimi Antonelli will debut a special helmet design at the upcoming 2026 Brazilian Grand Prix. The helmet is a direct tribute to Brazilian racing legend Ayrton Senna. This initiative coincides with the 35th anniversary of Senna’s memorable 1991 Brazilian Grand Prix victory.
Antonelli secured his maiden Formula 1 Drivers’ Championship last weekend at the Mexico City Grand Prix. He finished third in the race, which was won by Max Verstappen, with Lewis Hamilton taking second place.
The 20-year-old Mercedes driver became the youngest ever Formula 1 World Champion, achieving the title at 20 years, two months, and seven days old. He is also the first Italian champion since Alberto Ascari in 1953.
The 2026 Sao Paulo Grand Prix, officially known as the Formula 1 MSC Cruises Grande Prêmio de São Paulo 2026, is scheduled to run from November 6 to 8 at the Autódromo José Carlos Pace, commonly known as Interlagos.
This event marks the 20th round of the 2026 FIA Formula One World Championship. It concludes the current American triple-header, which previously included races in Austin and Mexico City.
Senna’s 1991 home victory at Interlagos was particularly notable as he battled severe gearbox issues. He completed the final laps of the race with his McLaren MP4/6 stuck in sixth gear.
The physical exertion required to control the car under these conditions led to extreme neck and shoulder cramps. Senna was unable to exit his car unassisted after crossing the finish line.
Antonelli has maintained a long-standing connection to Senna throughout his career. He has consistently raced with the number 12, a choice made in tribute to his idol.
Senna himself used the number 12 during his time with Lotus from 1985 to 1987. He also carried the number when he secured his first World Championship title with McLaren in 1988.
Despite winning the championship, Antonelli has confirmed he will not adopt the number 1 for the 2027 season. This option is traditionally available to the reigning champion.
Antonelli cited personal significance for the number 12 and a desire to remain grounded as reasons for his decision. He also mentioned a personal superstition regarding the number 1.
Since the introduction of permanent driver numbers in 2014, champions have had the choice to use number 1 or retain their personal number. Lewis Hamilton famously kept his number 44.
Conversely, Max Verstappen and 2025 champion Lando Norris both opted to use the number 1 during their title-defending seasons.
Antonelli’s contract with Mercedes extends through the 2026 season. His base salary for 2026 is reported to be approximately $3.4 million (€3 million).
Performance-related bonuses, including those for race wins and the championship, could increase his total earnings for the 2026 season to an estimated $15.4 million.
The Brazilian Grand Prix weekend will feature support races from the F4 Brazilian Championship, Porsche Sprint Challenge Brazil, and Porsche Carrera Cup Brazil.
Additional events include an F1 Car Presentation, a Historic Cars Parade, and the traditional Drivers’ Parade before Sunday’s main race.
Mercedes also has the opportunity to secure the Constructors’ World Championship this weekend in Brazil, potentially completing a double title celebration.
