The 2024 Brazilian Grand Prix at Interlagos was a thrilling, rain-affected race marked by dramatic comebacks, multiple incidents, and surprising outcomes.
Max Verstappen emerged victorious after an incredible charge from P17, overtaking several cars in challenging conditions and ultimately securing a comfortable win—his first since June. His success was shaped by the decision to leave him out on degrading Intermediate tyres before a red flag allowed him to effectively secure a ‘free’ pit stop. However, nothing should take away from one of the all-time great performances from Verstappen who was imperious in the wet conditions.
The race started in chaotic fashion as Lance Stroll in his Aston Martin crashed out on the formation lap, leading to confusion across the field about the protocol required to start the race. Once proceedings did begin, George Russell in his Mercedes overtook the McLaren of Lando Norris to take the lead, however the race all hinged on the red flag that was required after a huge crash for the Williams of Franco Colapinto allowing Verstappen and the Alpine’s of Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly to take full advantage.
After the race restart, Esteban Ocon successfully defended against the charge of Verstappen only for another crash, this time for Carlos Sainz Jr, allowing Verstappen to finally take the lead of the race with a stunning overtake into the first corner after the safety car period had ended.
Despite the conditions not improving, Verstappen was imperious as he claimed victory with Alpine drivers Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly celebrating a double podium, finishing in second and third, respectively. Their strong performances marked a high point for Alpine, significantly boosting their position in the Constructors’ Championship as they moved up from 9th to 6th in the standings. George Russell claimed fourth for Mercedes, while Charles Leclerc took fifth for Ferrari. Lando Norris, who started on pole, faced setbacks in the wet conditions and ultimately finished sixth, losing ground in the championship standings.
With only three races to go, Max Verstappen looks the odds-on favorite to retain his world drivers title whilst the battle for the constructors title is still on, however with the consistency that Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri driving with, McLaren look the favorites to claim their first constructors title since 1998.
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