Lando Norris’ Flawless Execution
Lando Norris completed a perfect weekend, taking pole and victory for both the Grand Prix and Sprint. After a well-executed start, Norris kept a commanding lead during the chaotic first few laps where multiple incidents triggered safety cars. Norris cruised to victory, finishing ahead of Kimi Antonelli by ten seconds. He now leads the championship by twenty-four points. After the race, Norris told reporters, “It was an amazing race and it’s nice to win here in Brazil.” This weekend was a statement for the Briton – he is finally dictating the championship.
Max Verstappen Climbs from Pit Lane to Podium
All Max Verstappen fans will have come into the Brazilian Grand Prix weekend with fond memories of his race here last year. In 2024, the Dutchman flew from 17th to 1st, one of the greatest performances of his career. This year, Verstappen was knocked out of qualifying in Q1. Set to line up 16th on the grid, he instead started from the pitlane due to set up changes and a new power unit. As soon as the lights went out, he returned to his usual form, climbing to P9 by lap 18. The Red Bull driver finished 3rd, an exceptional performance in an crash-filled race. Verstappen trails Norris by 49 points, so his dream for a fifth championship could come true, even if Norris wins the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
The Italian Team Falls While the Italian Driver Thrives
Fans watching from Italy would’ve had mixed opinions after the race, with double DNF for Ferrari but a second-ever podium for the Bologna native Kimi Antonelli. Ferrari Team Principal Fred Vasseur admitted it was “difficult to take positives” from the disappointing Grand Prix. Charles Leclerc was forced to retire after Kimi Antonelli and Oscar Piastri collided and left him with only three tires. Lewis Hamilton also DNF’d after contact with Carlos Sainz and Franco Colapinto which damaged his floor. He served his five-second penalty in the pits, then Ferrari chose to save the engine and retire the car.
On the other hand, Kimi Antonelli had a brilliant race. After a difficult European leg of the season, Antonelli finished 2nd in Brazil. His success came partly because it was an unfamiliar track. Toto Wolff, Mercedes team principal, said often it’s easier at races the Italian hasn’t previously competed at because expectations and pressure are lower. Antonelli was battling in the closing stages, defending a charging Verstappen, but overall he held the Dutchman off. Antonelli will head into the Las Vegas Grand Prix with two podiums to his name, an admirable achievement for a 19-year-old!
