SÃO PAULO, Brazil – Starting 17th, Max Verstappen flew over the Interlagos circuit, in the rain, to win the Brazilian Grand Prix. With his 8th victory of the season, the Dutchman increases his lead to 65 points over his runner-up Lando Norris (McLaren) who, starting from the leading position, was not able to do better than 6th position.
In addition to the surprise caused by Verstappen, the other winners of the day were undoubtedly the two Alpine drivers while Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly joined the winner on the podium. George Russel (Mercedes) and Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) completed the top 5, ahead of Norris and Yuki Tsunoda (RB Visa Cash App).
Oscar Piastri (McLaren) finished 8th due to a 10-second penalty which dropped him one place. Liam Lawson (RB Visa Cash App) and Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) crossed the line in 9th and 10th position respectively.
Quebecer Lance Stroll (Aston Martin) did not complete a single lap, having lost control of his car during the preparation lap. His accident also created confusion on the grid and Norris, Russell, Tsunoda and Lawson are still under investigation for non-compliance with the starting procedure.
At the wheel of his Red Bull, Verstappen had already gained seven positions after one lap and one corner. The rain then caused all kinds of problems for the drivers, but “Mad Max” did not seem to be bothered by Mother Nature. The three-time reigning world champion had not won since the Spanish Grand Prix on June 23, a drought of 10 races.
Verstappen now needs just 21 points to win a fourth world title, meaning he could be crowned as early as the next Grand Prix, in Las Vegas, on November 24.
More details to come
Canada
