Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has confirmed that Lewis Hamilton will travel with him following the 2026 Brazilian Grand Prix. This arrangement places Hamilton, a Ferrari driver, amidst Mercedes’ celebrations for securing the Constructors’ Championship. The flight follows a race weekend where Mercedes achieved a significant milestone, contrasting with Ferrari’s ongoing season performance.
The 2026 Brazilian Grand Prix, held on November 8, saw Lando Norris claim victory for McLaren. Max Verstappen secured second place for Red Bull, with his teammate Isack Hadjar finishing third. Mercedes drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli finished fourth and fifth respectively.
Hamilton, making his 400th Formula 1 start, finished ninth for Ferrari at the Autódromo José Carlos Pace. He started the race from 20th position on the grid and experienced a spin during the event. Hamilton was ultimately lapped by race winner Norris.
Mercedes’ fourth and fifth-place finishes were sufficient to clinch the 2026 Constructors’ Championship. This marks Mercedes’ ninth Constructors’ title and their first since the 2021 season. The team’s success in Brazil completed a double championship year.
Kimi Antonelli had previously secured the 2026 Drivers’ Championship at the Mexico City Grand Prix. He became the youngest Formula 1 World Champion in the sport’s history.
Wolff expressed considerable pride in Mercedes’ achievement, highlighting the team’s return to the top after several challenging years. He noted the significance of matching Frank Williams’s record of nine Constructors’ titles.
“It’s amazing, you know. It was a very strong beginning of the season, and that kind of got us over the line,” Wolff stated. “But also, these last few races have been challenging. At times today, it was difficult, but overall, I’m so proud of the organisation; we’ve taken a few years to be back in the top spot.”
Ferrari’s 2026 season has been marked by inconsistent performance. The team currently sits second in the Constructors’ Championship, 126 points behind Mercedes after the Mexico City Grand Prix.
The Ferrari SF-26 chassis has demonstrated strength in cornering, but the team has faced a power unit deficit on straights. Internal team dynamics, including “counterproductive battles” between Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, have also been noted.
Hamilton’s contract with Ferrari extends through the 2026 season. Reports suggest discussions are ongoing regarding a potential extension until 2027 or even 2028. He joined the Italian team for the 2025 season.
The flight with Wolff and Russell will involve Mercedes celebrating their Constructors’ title. Wolff indicated they might have a celebratory drink. Hamilton is currently fourth in the 2026 Drivers’ Championship standings.
Despite the immediate celebrations, Wolff confirmed his focus remains on future performance. He stated he was already analyzing the Brazilian Grand Prix results and considering the 2027 season.
Wolff also indicated that Mercedes might consider prioritising George Russell in the remaining races. This strategy would aim to assist Russell in his battle for second place in the Drivers’ Championship.
