Formula 1: Max Verstappen dominates in São Paulo as Alonso pips Pérez to third place

Even before the São Paulo Grand Prix began, Lewis Hamilton had expressed his longing to part ways with this year’s Mercedes car. By the end of the race, which was convincingly won by Max Verstappen’s Red Bull, he would have eagerly asked someone to relieve him of the tumultuous machine. His team, including team principal Toto Wolff, also criticized the car’s performance at Interlagos, labeling it “miserable” and “inexcusable.”

The disparity between Verstappen and Red Bull’s performance and Mercedes’ showing in Brazil was stark and discomforting. Verstappen delivered a commanding victory, leaving Lando Norris in his McLaren to claim second place and Fernando Alonso in his Aston Martin securing third. Mercedes, however, failed to keep up the pace.

Hamilton, struggling with the car’s performance and tire wear, could only manage eighth place. Wolff criticized the car, declaring, “This car does not deserve a win,” and called the team’s performance “inexcusable.” He emphasized the inconsistency in the car’s performance, affecting both straight-line speed and cornering.

Hamilton had expressed his desire to part ways with the car earlier, stating, “Only a couple more races with this car then it’s gone, so I’ll be happy.” After the São Paulo race, he exclaimed, “Thank God, thank God, two more races with this thing, and hopefully no more driving it.”

Mercedes had recently shown promise in the US and Mexico, but the Brazilian Grand Prix was a stark reminder of the car’s unreliability and inconsistent performance. In contrast, Red Bull’s car, which ceased development earlier, has consistently delivered strong performances throughout the season, amplifying Mercedes’ need for improvement.

Max Verstappen showcased his dominance once again, comfortably leading the race from pole to finish. Although Norris tried to keep pace in his McLaren, he couldn’t match Verstappen’s speed, finishing eight seconds behind. This performance contrast emphasizes the challenges Mercedes faces as it tries to match the consistently strong Red Bull car in various track conditions.

Lance Stroll finished fifth for Aston Martin, Carlos Sainz sixth for Ferrari, Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon secured seventh and tenth places for Alpine, and Yuki Tsunoda finished ninth for AlphaTauri.