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Top Teams Move Early as Antonelli and Mercedes Confirm Plans
Following the conclusion of the drivers' championship with Kimi Antonelli's historic title triumph, Formula 1 has already turned its focus toward 2027, even though the constructors' championship remains to be awarded with Mercedes holding a clear lead over Ferrari. Teams across the paddock have moved in advance to secure their race seats, confirming nearly all of their drivers. The leading squads in particular have committed their driver rosters to paper well ahead of time, led by Mercedes, which will return next year with the new Italian champion alongside George Russell. Antonelli's salary is set to rise to €30 million, accompanied by advertising revenues estimated between €9 million and €18 million.
Ferrari, Red Bull and McLaren Solidify Lineups
Ferrari will also continue to race with Charles Leclerc, who has signed a multi-year deal, alongside Lewis Hamilton. At Red Bull Racing, after several hesitations from Max Verstappen, the team secured a contract extension running until 2030 with the Dutch driver, who will again be joined next season by Isack Hadjar. McLaren has likewise confirmed its setup, maintaining its young but proven driver pairing of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. Italian racer Leonardo Fornaroli has been retained as McLaren's third driver and reserve in Formula 1, with his sporting commitments expanding to include a debut in the World Endurance Championship driving the new McLaren Hypercar.
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Cadillac Extends Perez Contract as Racing Bulls Evaluate Seats
Sergio Perez became the latest competitor to renew his contractual terms, signing an agreement with Cadillac through 2029, when the Mexican driver will be 39 years old, finalised prior to the race start at his home circuit in Mexico City. Lower down the grid, nearly all driver positions are confirmed with the exception of Racing Bulls. Even so, New Zealand driver Liam Lawson and Britain's Arvid Lindblad are both expected to keep their seats at the team.
Russell Offers Post-Season Praise Following Difficult Campaign
At Mercedes, calm appears to have returned between the two drivers after Russell chose not to attend Antonelli's championship celebration. Shaken by a campaign that fell well below expectations, particularly in comparison to Antonelli, the British driver praised the 20-year-old Bologna native on Instagram after previously skipping post-race media appearances and the celebration for the new champion. Russell congratulated Antonelli on what he described as an incredible season, adding that Antonelli truly deserved the championship. Russell explained that he felt it was the right moment to speak with complete honesty, noting that the season had started exactly as he had hoped before unravelling rapidly because of misfortune and disappointing performances.
Leclerc Assesses Season and Brazilian Grand Prix Availability
Ferrari's Leclerc similarly experienced a campaign that fell below expectations and saw him finish behind seven-time champion Hamilton. Leclerc may return to the Principality of Monaco and miss the opening free practice session in Brazil due to the impending birth of his first child with his wife Alexandra.
