Lando Norris delivered a masterful performance to win the Sao Paulo Grand Prix at Interlagos, overcoming a wet-to-dry-to-wet race that tested drivers to their limits. The McLaren driver converted pole position into victory despite an early challenge from Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli, who led by eight seconds before spinning at Turn 1 under pressure. Norris pitted a lap earlier for slick tyres, forcing Antonelli to push and ultimately err, and then controlled the race to the finish.
Podium Fireworks Mishap
During the podium celebrations, Norris was struck by fireworks while attempting his signature champagne celebration, but McLaren team principal Andrea Stella confirmed he was unhurt. Red Bull's Max Verstappen and Isack Hadjar doused him with champagne in response.
Verstappen's Remarkable Recovery
Verstappen finished second after starting 21st due to an engine penalty. He ran as high as fifth in the opening stint but reported severe oversteer after switching to slicks, saying the car was "not in good shape" for the remainder of the race.
Mercedes Secure Ninth Constructors' Championship
Mercedes clinched their first constructors' title since 2021 with a fourth-place finish for George Russell and fifth for Antonelli. Team boss Toto Wolff acknowledged the increasing competitiveness of Formula 1, stating he does not expect a return to the dominant eras of the past.
Driver Reactions
Norris called it "one of the hardest races of the year in terms of focus needed every lap and therefore one of the best." Stella praised Norris's adaptability in changing conditions. Antonelli described his spin as "very disappointing" but celebrated the team title. Wolff reflected on the difficulty of maintaining dominance in the current era of closely matched teams.
