Mercedes complete F1 title double in Brazil

Nov 8 : Mercedes completed a Formula One title double in Brazil on Sunday, adding the constructors' crown to Kimi Antonelli's drivers' championship won in Mexico City last weekend and celebrating with champagne and the whole race team dancing on the podium.

While 20-year-old Italian Antonelli's success in becoming the youngest ever champion will have grabbed more headlines, the team title is nonetheless meaningful for what it brings in financial rewards and Mercedes have had four lean years since their last in 2021.

The constructors' title is where the team gets its reward, a greater share of the sport's prize pot and prestige for sponsors, and is the trigger for staff bonuses that affect everyone working long days at the Brackley and Brixworth factories in England.

"They're all different, with different challenges and situations," said team principal and co-owner Toto Wolff ahead of the race at Interlagos when asked about the many titles he has now presided over.

"The drivers' was very special this year, but the constructors' is obviously the one that pays the bonuses. So, it's something that is very, very important for all of the organisation.

"You know - you pay the mortgage, the (new) kitchen, or the holiday, or the school of the children. And the driver is also very aware of that."

Mercedes now have 652 points to Ferrari's 512, an insurmountable lead of 140 with only 129 still to be won. 

FOUR DIFFICULT YEARS

According to some estimates, McLaren received $175 million for winning the title last season.

Mercedes last clinched the double in 2020, with 2021 their last constructors' title - the end of a record run of eight in a row - and have fought back from a difficult period with a bouncing car and wins in short supply.

"We've