Kimi Antonelli's second podium at the Brazilian Grand Prix on Sunday, signalled at a small change within Mercedes. The Italian finished second behind Lando Norris, while his teammate George Russell came home fourth, capping off one of the best weekends of the year for the Silver Arrows.
Antonelli and Russell had already shared the Sprint podium a day earlier finishing 2-3. But the main event at Interlagos revealed a new dynamic between the duo. Reflecting on the result, Antonelli hinted that the internal competition between them is becoming more serious.
“My relationship with George is definitely changing. It’s natural that he’s not happy finishing behind me, just as I’m never happy when I’m behind,” Antonelli said (via Formula Passion). “The relationship has changed and will change, but there’s a lot of respect between us and there’s a great dynamic in the team, because we’re pushing each other.”
The Sao Paulo weekend was Kimi Antonelli's first sprint podium finish and his second Grand Prix podium, after Canada. Kicking off from the front row along with Lando Norris, he survived a chaotic race to clinch his best result in F1 so far.
After a tough Lap 6 incident eliminated Charles Leclerc and earned Oscar Piastri a penalty, Antonelli settled into rhythm behind Norris. He managed tire wear and held his position against Max Verstappen, finishing just 0.362 seconds ahead of the Red Bull racer. George Russell appreciated youngsters.
“Kimi did a great job to get P2 too,” Russell said (via F1). “He’s been super quick all weekend and that’s great to see. We will be working as a pair to score as many points as possible and hopefully come out on top by the time we reach the chequered flag at Yas Marina.”
Russel endured a difficult afternoon. After losing ground in the initial laps, he found his way back through the pack and held the final podium place before Verstappen cruised past him in the dying moments. While he settled for fourth, Antonelli's calm under pressure ensured Mercedes took home a double top-four finish.
The result leaves the Italian just 26 points behind seven-time world Champion Lewis Hamilton in the standings, whom he replaced at the team.