The São Paulo Grand Prix in Brazil is always a fiery point on the Formula 1 calendar, and 2024 was no exception. Interlagos' unpredictable weather, its rollercoaster layout, and its passionate fans never fail to create a spectacle. This year, the race weekend gave us a mix of triumphs and setbacks that could influence the championship run-in. Let’s delve into the standout performances and disappointments that shaped one of F1’s most electric events.
On top once again was Max Verstappen, who reaffirmed his status as the grid’s benchmark driver. Red Bull’s maestro controlled proceedings from start to finish, maintaining composure through safety car periods and pressure from behind. What continues to impress is Verstappen’s ability to extract maximum performance even when his car is not outright dominant. This victory was a testament not only to his immense driving skill but to Red Bull’s strategic sharpness, cementing their stronghold on the Constructors’ Championship.
The home crowd had plenty to cheer for with a resurgent performance from Fernando Alonso, masterfully steering his Aston Martin to a hard-fought podium. The Spaniard demonstrated vintage racecraft, defending robustly against Sergio Perez in the closing laps for the final podium spot. Aston Martin, having endured a difficult midfield slog in recent rounds, must surely be thrilled with their car’s return to form. Meanwhile, Perez’s robust drive to fourth—pushing relentlessly—provided valuable points for Red Bull’s chase for a perfect season.
One of the race’s biggest revelations came from Mercedes, but not for the reasons their fans would have hoped. Both Lewis Hamilton and George Russell suffered from chronic tire degradation and a lack of pace. Interlagos has traditionally suited the Silver Arrows, but this time, unresolved setup challenges left the team lacking answers as rivals surged ahead. A double retirement for Russell due to overheating capped off a disastrous Sunday, sparking concerns over Mercedes’ ability to bounce back before the season finale.
Among the midfield, Yuki Tsunoda delivered one of his most accomplished weekends in Formula 1, steering his car deep into the points and even flirting with a top-six finish. The Japanese driver’s improved consistency and commando-like overtaking maneuvers are perfect illustrations of his growing maturity, something AlphaTauri will certainly want to nurture further. His result in São Paulo adds intrigue to the grid’s driver market rumors, as his stock continues to rise with each round.
At the other end of the spectrum, McLaren suffered a bittersweet outing. Lando Norris, one of this season’s standout performers, once again showcased outrageous pace and claimed the fastest lap. However, Oscar Piastri’s fortunes took a nosedive after early-race incidents, sending the rookie down the order. The Papaya squad remain a team to watch, especially as their star drivers seem to find new levels of form when it matters most, but inconsistency remains an itch they can’t quite scratch.
Haas yet again found themselves in the throes of misfortune. The team entered the weekend with slim hopes for points but left with none, stymied by high tire wear and a lack of raw pace. Nico Hülkenberg and Kevin Magnussen fought valiantly, yet the American outfit’s struggles underline the need for significant progress if they’re to avoid the cellar in next year’s pecking order. Conversely, Valtteri Bottas managed to eke out a solid performance for Sauber, reminding everyone that experience and guile remain valuable assets in F1’s hyper-competitive midfield.
As Interlagos echoed with samba rhythms and Brazilian sunlight, the São Paulo Grand Prix reaffirmed why Formula 1’s return to South America is pure magic. The tension and unpredictability showed us why fans can never take their eyes off the action, as the season approaches a feverish climax. With triumphs for some and torment for others, there’s still everything to play for as F1 heads towards the final crescendo.
