Mercedes-AMG Petronas celebrated a historic milestone on Sunday at the São Paulo Grand Prix, securing the Formula 1 Constructors’ Championship for the ninth time. The title was clinched after the team’s drivers, George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, finished fourth and fifth respectively, providing the points needed to outpace Ferrari.
Race recap
The weekend began with wet track conditions, forcing all competitors onto intermediate tires. Early in the race, both Mercedes drivers faced challenges: Antonelli spun while leading a brief stint, and Russell slid off the pit lane during a tire change to the C5 soft compound. Despite the setbacks, the Silver Arrows recovered, positioning both cars inside the top five by lap 56.
As the race progressed, dark clouds gathered and heavier rain returned on lap 57. Mercedes warned Antonelli that another switch to intermediate tires might be required. The rain intensified, prompting several drivers—including Fernando Alonso, Charles Leclerc, Liam Lawson and Russell—to gamble on fresh intermediates around lap 62. Lando Norris, who had been leading, also pitted for intermediates at that point, followed by Max Verstappen and Antonelli.
Team strategy and title clinch
With the field stabilizing, Mercedes instructed Antonelli to allow Russell through into fourth place, giving the veteran a chance to chase a podium finish. Shortly after, Russell reported a technical issue with his W17 car, echoing concerns Antonelli had raised earlier.
Race control opened an investigation into Antonelli’s release from the pits during his final stop, questioning whether it was done safely. However, Antonelli’s five‑second gap over Oscar Piastri meant any potential penalty would not affect the championship outcome.
Final results
Lando Norris claimed victory for McLaren, followed by Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar of Red Bull on the podium. Russell held on for fourth, and Antonelli crossed the line in fifth, delivering the points that sealed Mercedes’ Constructors’ title.
The championship win underscores Mercedes’ continued dominance in the sport, especially after a year of sweeping technical regulation changes that many expected to shake up the competitive order. The team’s ability to adapt and secure the title despite challenging weather highlights both driver skill and strategic acumen.
What’s next for Mercedes
Looking ahead, Mercedes will aim to build on this success as the season moves toward its final races. The team’s focus will remain on refining the W17 platform, addressing the technical concerns raised by Russell, and preparing for the next generation of regulations slated for future seasons.
Original reporting: All Sports Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
