The Formula 1 is experiencing a special atmosphere on the eve of the São Paulo Grand Prix. Gabriel Bortoleto, responsible for putting Brazil back on the F1 grid, spoke of a “reunion with his own history” as he returns to Interlagos, the track where he grew up watching races. The Brazilian has the goal of completing the race in his home debut – a feat achieved by only nine Brazilian drivers to date. “It seems unreal,” said the Sauber rookie, citing preparation with tests and simulator to avoid mistakes in the race.
Sunday will also feature a habitual protagonist at Interlagos: Max Verstappen. The four-time champion has never left the circuit without scoring points – a fact that helps to dimension the weight of the Dutchman in the dispute – and arrives in Brazil focused on reducing the distance to the championship leaders. Verstappen’s history at the #1 circuit includes victories and podiums, as well as consistent performances in race pace.
Meanwhile, the championship may take on strategic connotations due to engine penalties. With the limit of power unit components on the FIA’s radar, any changes outside the quota can shuffle the starting grid in the final stages. Lando Norris leads the World Championship by just one point over Oscar Piastri, with Verstappen 36 points behind – and any penalty can cost vital positions in such tight classifications.
Bortoleto, in turn, highlighted that preparation was intensified after Mexico, with a focus on procedures, pit stops, and tire management. The goal is to have a clean race, absorb the pressure from the crowd, and score points – step by step – in the final stretch of the season. “I’m confident,” summarized the Brazilian.
Between numbers and feelings, the picture on Tuesday reinforces two axes: Brazil’s return to the grid with Bortoleto at Interlagos and the open title fight – including possible engine penalties. In a weekend with a Sprint, any hundredth and each position on the grid can define the championship’s outcome.
