Antonelli readies a special Senna tribute helmet for the Brazilian GP

Some gestures say more than any trophy. And the one Kimi Antonelli is preparing for this weekend in Sao Paulo goes straight to the heart of any Formula 1 fan: a helmet dedicated entirely to Ayrton Senna, the idol who made him dream of this sport since he was a kid.

The Italian arrives at the Brazilian Grand Prix at a singular point in his career. Just last weekend, in Mexico City, a third place finish was enough to seal the world title with four races to spare, making him, at just 20 years old, the youngest champion in Formula 1 history. From there he flew straight to Sao Paulo, and the first thing he did was share a photo on Tuesday alongside his parents and Senna's family, all seated inside the Brazilian legend's iconic 1986 Lotus.

It's no coincidence that Antonelli feels such a special connection to Senna. As a kid he watched videos of him over and over, and last year, during the Sao Paulo Grand Prix itself, he visited the three-time champion's grave. Senna died in Imola, which sits close to Bologna, the city where Antonelli himself was born.

That bond now takes shape in a helmet the Mercedes driver considers one of the best he's ever made.

"I'm going to have something special for Brazil, for Ayrton. Also because it marks 35 years since he won for the first time in Brazil. I think it's one of the best helmets I've made, so I hope everyone likes it"Kimi Antonelli

Antonelli himself admitted this weekend carries a different meaning than any other race.

"It's going to be a very special weekend. I'm really looking forward to it. The support from Brazil has been incredible, not just this year, but already since last year"Kimi Antonelli

Number 12, a permanent tribute

As world champion, Antonelli has the right to carry number one on his car next season. However, he already made clear he'll stick with number 12, the number he races with and the one most historically tied to Senna above any other.

Meanwhile, the fight on track continues. Antonelli and teammate George Russell will look to add the constructors' championship to Mercedes' trophy case in Sao Paulo. To get there, the Silver Arrows need to finish at least three points ahead of Ferrari this weekend.