Mercedes could end five-year wait just days after Antonelli's F1 glory

The Silver Arrows dominated Formula 1 throughout the hybrid era, winning eight consecutive Constructors' Championships between 2014 and 2021. However, the introduction of the ground-effect regulations in 2022 brought that remarkable run to an end, with Mercedes struggling to consistently match the pace of its main rivals.

The arrival of the new technical regulations in 2026 has marked a significant turnaround for the Brackley-based outfit. Antonelli's championship triumph in Mexico confirmed Mercedes' return to the top of Formula 1, and the team now has an opportunity to complete the double by securing the Constructors' Championship at Interlagos.

Mercedes arrives at Interlagos with 630 points, compared to Ferrari's 504, giving the Silver Arrows a commanding 126-point advantage with four Grands Prix remaining.

Only Ferrari can still mathematically prevent Mercedes from securing the championship, with Red Bull and McLaren already eliminated from contention.

The calculation is relatively straightforward. Mercedes needs to outscore Ferrari by at least three points in Brazil to secure the title, extending its advantage to 129 points. Although 129 points will remain available across the final three rounds in Las Vegas, Qatar and Abu Dhabi, Mercedes would prevail on countback even if Ferrari managed to draw level.

Antonelli and Russell have combined to deliver 12 Grand Prix victories this season, compared to just two for Ferrari. That advantage in race wins means the Italian manufacturer cannot beat Mercedes in the event of a championship tie.

Several results would guarantee Mercedes the title regardless of Ferrari's performance. A one-two finish would be sufficient, as would first and third or first and fourth. Other combinations could also secure the championship, depending on where Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc finish.

Ferrari has nevertheless outscored Mercedes across the last four races, meaning the Scuderia could still delay its rival's celebrations until Las Vegas.

Mercedes' opportunity comes just one week after Antonelli became the youngest world champion in Formula 1 history at the age of 20.

The Italian secured the championship with a third-place finish at the Mexican Grand Prix, where Max Verstappen claimed victory ahead of Hamilton. Antonelli entered the race needing only ninth place to guarantee the title, eventually completing the 71-lap contest on the podium.

His achievement marked Mercedes' first Drivers' Championship since Lewis Hamilton's seventh title in 2020, while the team now stands on the verge of reclaiming the Constructors' crown after five years.

Should Mercedes secure the championship on Sunday, it would become the ninth Constructors' title in the team's history and complete its first Drivers' and Constructors' Championship double since 2020.