By Salma El-Sakka
Kimi Antonelli will miss Thursday's media day at the Mexican Grand Prix due to a viral illness, Mercedes confirmed. The 20-year-old driver is on the verge of securing the 2026 Formula One world championship this weekend in Mexico City.
Championship Scenario
Antonelli needs to finish ninth or higher on Sunday to guarantee the title. Even if he fails to score, the championship would only extend to Brazil if teammate George Russell or Lewis Hamilton wins the race. Antonelli holds a 123-point lead over Russell with 125 points remaining, having claimed his ninth victory of the season in Austin last Sunday.
Team Statement and Schedule
Mercedes said Antonelli was excused from mandatory FIA media duties as a precaution and is expected to return for Friday's two practice sessions at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez. If he clinches the title, Antonelli would become the sport's youngest-ever champion, joining only Hamilton and Jacques Villeneuve as drivers to win in their second season. The race starts at 8pm GMT on Sunday.
