Lando Norris dominates in the rain and takes pole position at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix
British driver Lando Norris, behind the wheel of his McLaren, claimed pole position at the challenging Interlagos circuit, setting the pace in a qualifying session marked by intense rainfall. With a time of 1 minute, 27 seconds, and 470 milliseconds, Norris secured the twentieth pole position of his professional career and his fourth so far this Formula One season.
The day was conditioned by the weather, which forced the drivers to take extreme precautions on the Brazilian asphalt. Although George Russell (Mercedes) initially got close to the reference time, subsequent technical penalties significantly altered the final starting grid configuration for this Sunday’s race.
Fernando Alonso stands out on a day of changes
One of the brightest spots of the day was the performance of veteran Fernando Alonso. The Asturian managed to reach Q3 for the first time this season, demonstrating his relevance in the top category of motorsport. After setting the ninth fastest time in the final session, Alonso will climb to eighth place on the official starting grid, benefiting from the penalty imposed on Charles Leclerc.
The ability to adapt to extreme weather conditions has been the key to defining the starting positions in a Grand Prix that promises strong emotions at Interlagos.
Grid modifications and the outlook for Sunday
- Leadership: Lando Norris leads the start after an impeccable lap in the rain.
- Penalties: George Russell, affected by penalties, loses ground, allowing Kimi Antonelli and Liam Lawson to gain strategic positions.
- Notable results: Carlos Sainz will start from the thirteenth position, while the Argentine Franco Colapinto will start from the fifteenth spot.
- Difficulties at Red Bull: Max Verstappen and Sergio Pérez face an uphill Sunday, starting from the back of the grid due to significant accumulated penalties.
The José Carlos Pace Autodrome will be the stage where the Sao Paulo Grand Prix will be decided this November 8th. With a grid altered by weather conditions and stewards’ decisions, race strategy will be fundamental for drivers looking to climb from the back or consolidate their lead on the Brazilian track.
