Antonelli fastest in Brazilian Grand Prix practice after title-winning week

Kimi Antonelli set the pace in second practice for the Brazilian Grand Prix on Friday, heading Lando Norris and Max Verstappen at Interlagos, according to Autosport.

The Mercedes driver's best lap came just before the halfway point of the session at the 4.3km circuit, as the field switched to soft tyres in testing conditions that Autosport described as tricky.

It continues a remarkable week for the 20-year-old Italian, who sealed his maiden Formula 1 drivers' championship before Friday's running in Sao Paulo.

Antonelli had already been quick in the morning, finishing second in first practice, Yahoo Sports reported.

While the drivers' title is settled, Mercedes still has work to do in the constructors' standings. The Brackley team leads on 630 points, with the chance to wrap up that championship this weekend, ahead of Ferrari on 504 and Red Bull on 382, per Yahoo Sports.

Antonelli used the two days after his title triumph to make a pilgrimage connected to his racing idol. He travelled to Fazenda Dois Lagos in Tatuí, the estate of Ayrton Senna's family, on Tuesday, and was photographed sitting in the Lotus 98T that Senna drove in 1986.

Speaking to Italian outlet La Gazzetta dello Sport, reported by Yahoo Sports, Antonelli described the welcome he received. "It was very emotional," he said. "The Senna family welcomed me with open arms, letting me tour the entire estate, go karting on the track there, and ride in his 1986 Lotus."

He also detailed the presents he was given during the visit. "They gave me so many gifts: T-shirts, a replica of a statue in his honour that's on the circuit and even a brown leather jacket that's a replica of the one Ayrton always wore."

The visit carries extra significance this weekend, with this marking 35 years since Senna won his first home grand prix at Interlagos in 1991. Antonelli explained the thinking behind the gesture of tribute. "I wanted something to pay homage to him at his home grand prix, and I have to say the result is incredible. It looks much better in person than in the photographs I'd seen," he said. "So, when I first picked it up, I was thrilled too. I can't wait to use it on the track."

With Friday practice now complete, attention turns to qualifying and Sunday's race, where Antonelli will look to continue his form on track while Mercedes aims to confirm the constructors' crown at the same venue where its driver secured his own championship.