New world champion Kimi Antonelli says he is treating the final races of the season as the beginnings of his campaign to retain the title next year.

The Mercedes driver became the youngest champion in Formula 1 history, in only his second season, when he clinched the title in Mexico City last weekend.

Antonelli, 20, has his first race since tying up the title at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix this weekend.

"I'm actually very excited to be here," he said. "It's a good opportunity for me to, first of all, you know, try to finish the season on a top, but I also feel like that my 2027 preparation starts now.

"It's going to be important to finish the season well, strong, in order to have the confidence and also to be able to get the confidence ahead of 2027."