LIVE | Brazilian GP FP1: Antonelli begins first weekend as F1 world champion

The Mercedes driver heads into the Brazilian Grand Prix with the pressure of the championship battle finally behind him, having secured his maiden Formula 1 title at the previous round. However, there is still plenty at stake for the rest of the grid, with teams continuing to fight for valuable points and positions in the Constructors' Championship.

Friday's opening session will provide drivers with their first opportunity to assess track conditions and refine their setups ahead of the remainder of the weekend. With Interlagos renowned for its challenging layout and unpredictable weather, teams will be looking to gather as much information as possible during the opening 60 minutes.

The Autódromo José Carlos Pace, better known as Interlagos, is one of Formula 1's most recognisable venues. Located in São Paulo, the circuit runs anti-clockwise and combines long straights, significant elevation changes and a technically demanding middle sector.

The 4.309-kilometre layout features 15 corners, with the famous Senna S providing one of the most challenging sequences on the calendar. Drivers must negotiate a rapid change of direction immediately after the opening braking zone before accelerating towards the Reta Oposta straight.

Overtaking opportunities are concentrated around Turn 1 and Turn 4, while the twisty middle sector places a premium on mechanical grip and precise car balance. The uphill run from Juncão towards the start-finish line also makes traction and power-unit performance particularly important.

Interlagos is also renowned for its unpredictable weather, with sudden rainfall capable of transforming track conditions within minutes. The circuit has witnessed several dramatic races over the years, making it one of the most demanding venues for both drivers and engineers.

All times are in UK time (GMT) and Central European Time (CET).

Friday's opening practice session will also feature six young drivers taking over cars from their regular occupants as teams fulfil their mandatory rookie running requirements.

Leonardo Fornaroli will replace Oscar Piastri at McLaren, while Dino Beganovic will drive Charles Leclerc's Ferrari. Luke Browning will take over from Carlos Sainz at Williams, with Gabriele Minì replacing Pierre Gasly at Alpine.

Freddie Slater will get behind the wheel of Nico Hülkenberg's Audi, while Colton Herta will replace Sergio Pérez at Cadillac. The regular drivers are expected to return to their respective cars for FP2 later on Friday.

Antonelli's championship triumph may not be Mercedes' final celebration of the season. The German manufacturer arrives in São Paulo with an opportunity to secure the Constructors' Championship, holding a 126-point advantage over Ferrari.

Should Mercedes outscore Ferrari by at least three points across the Brazilian Grand Prix weekend, the team will mathematically secure the title, adding another championship to Antonelli's historic achievement in Mexico.

George Russell will also be looking to bounce back from a disappointing Mexican Grand Prix, despite carrying a grid penalty into the weekend. Mercedes will be hoping to maintain its competitive form at a circuit where changing conditions and strategic decisions can have a significant impact on the outcome.