The current triple-header reaches its thrilling finale this weekend as Formula 1 heads to Interlagos for the São Paulo Grand Prix, Round 20 of the season. Free Practice 1 and 2 take place on Friday, November 6, followed by Free Practice 3 and Qualifying on Saturday, November 7. The Grand Prix is set for Sunday, November 8.
Track Characteristics
Interlagos is a short, flowing and technical circuit.The first corner invites late braking, but braking too late can lock the front-left tyre. In the middle sector, maintaining rhythm is crucial: a lock-up at either tight right-hander can disrupt the line through the following corners. The final corner is key to carrying speed onto the long uphill straight, so drivers must balance opening up the turn with avoiding too much kerb. The anti-clockwise layout and long, loaded left-handers also make the circuit physically demanding, particularly for the drivers'necks.
Tyre and Strategy Insights
Pirelli has selected the C3, C4 and C5 compounds for the Brazilian Grand Prix, one step softer than last year. Resurfacing between Turns 3 and 5 and Turns 8 and 9 could affect grip, track evolution and tyre wear, especially over longer runs. Last year, degradation was a key factor and a two-stop strategy proved most effective. This year, teams will need to balance one-lap pace with tyre management. Interlagos offers several overtaking opportunities, while rain and temperature changes could bring intermediate or full wet tyres into play.
Championship Standings
Kimi Antonelli secured his first Drivers'Championship in Mexico City with four rounds remaining. Max Verstappen took his third win in four races and moved into second in the standings, two points ahead of Lewis Hamilton.George Russell is nine points behind Verstappen, while Charles Leclerc and Lando Norris remain in contention. Mercedes could secure both titles for the first time since 2020 if it outscores Ferrari by three points. In the midfield, Rafael Camara is set to make his F1 debut for Haas at his home event, replacing Esteban Ocon.
Last five GP winners in Sao Paulo
2025 – Lando Norris (McLaren)
2024 – Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
2023 – Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
2022 – George Russell (Mercedes)
2021 – Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)
