Lando Norris dominates in the rain and takes pole position at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix
British driver Lando Norris, from McLaren, has established himself as the absolute protagonist of the day at the Autódromo José Carlos Pace. In a qualifying session marked by adverse weather conditions, Norris managed to secure pole position for the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, the twentieth round of the Formula One season calendar.
With a time of 1 minute, 27 seconds, and 470 milliseconds on the Interlagos circuit, the Briton edged out his compatriot George Russell in an intense battle on the wet asphalt. This mark represents the fourth pole of the season for Norris, reaffirming his great form in the pinnacle of motorsport.
Grid changes due to penalties
The final starting grid configuration has undergone significant alterations due to various penalties applied to the drivers. Although George Russell was the second fastest on track, a five-place penalty pushed him back, allowing the Italian Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) to move up to second place, while the New Zealander Liam Lawson (Racing Bulls) will start from the third position.
On the other hand, Latin and Spanish representation also has important news:
- Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin) will start eighth, after managing to reach Q3 for the first time this season and benefiting from the ten-place grid penalty applied to Charles Leclerc.
- Carlos Sainz (Williams) will start the race from the thirteenth position.
- Franco Colapinto (Alpine) will be located in the fifteenth spot on the grid.
Fernando Alonso will seek to capitalize on his good starting position at the Interlagos circuit, a historic track where the Asturian managed to be crowned two-time world champion in the past.
Complex situation for Red Bull
The day has been extremely complicated for the Red Bull team. Max Verstappen, the championship leader, will be forced to fight back from the twenty-first position, while Sergio Pérez will close the grid in last place after accumulating a 30-place penalty.
The qualifying session, which was interrupted for nearly ninety minutes during its first round due to heavy rain, leaves the stage open and full of expectations for this Sunday’s race, November 8th. With Norris at the front, excitement at the Sao Paulo circuit is guaranteed.
