Antonelli plans Senna tribute helmet for São Paulo GP

Kimi Antonelli said he will wear a special helmet honoring Ayrton Senna at the São Paulo Grand Prix this weekend, as the newly crowned Formula One champion prepares for his first race in Brazil since winning the title. He said the design marks 35 years since Senna’s first victory at his home race. Antonelli announced the plan in comments to media in Mexico. He described the helmet as a tribute to Senna and said it was among his best designs. The announcement concerns his plan for the race; the sources do not establish that the helmet has already been worn or show its finished design. The Mercedes driver also said he will retain number 12 in 2027 rather than switch to number 1, available to the defending champion. He said the number was special to him and helped him stay grounded and humble. Antonelli added that he was superstitious and had not had good experiences when using number 1. Senna raced with number 12 at Lotus and during his first championship-winning season with McLaren in 1988. Antonelli has used the number throughout his Formula One career. The Italian said Senna’s driving, dedication, work ethic and empathy inspired him from childhood. Ahead of the São Paulo...