Will a wet Interlagos suit Max or Lando? + Hamilton’s ‘emotional’ Senna tribute - 2024 Sao Paulo GP Preview ft Gabriel Bortoleto
Oct 31, 2024
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Gabriel Bortoleto, a rising star and current leader in the Formula 2 championship, joins the discussion to preview the Sao Paolo Grand Prix. He dives into the potential impact of wet weather and Max Verstappen's possible grid penalty on the title race against Lando Norris. The increasing tension with Ferrari closing in adds pressure on McLaren. Additionally, Bortoleto shares insights about his future, while Lewis Hamilton pays tribute to Ayrton Senna, reflecting on the Brazilian racing icon’s legacy and the significance of driving his title-winning car.
The unpredictable weather and recent track changes at Interlagos could significantly impact the championship battle between Verstappen and Norris.
Hamilton's emotional tribute to Senna highlights the deep connection between Brazilian motorsport history and the current F1 landscape.
Deep dives
The Significance of Interlagos
Interlagos is a historically significant track for Formula One, showcasing numerous championship battles in the past. It holds a special place for Brazilian drivers, particularly this year as the motorsport community commemorates the 30th anniversary of Ayrton Senna's passing. The atmosphere is filled with nostalgia, and the presence of local racing legends adds to the excitement of the weekend. This year's events are more poignant as they not only celebrate racing but also honor Senna's legacy and contributions to Brazilian motorsport.
Track Challenges and Conditions
Interlagos is characterized by its technical layout, presenting drivers with a mix of high, medium, and low-speed corners. The recent repaving of the track has introduced uncertainties regarding grip and racing lines, making it crucial for drivers to adapt their techniques. Pirelli's decision to bring softer tire compounds this season adds another layer of variability to race strategies. Drivers will have to navigate both the track's complexity and unpredictable weather, which could play a pivotal role in the championship race.
Championship Tensions and Rivalries
The competition between Max Verstappen and Lando Norris is intensifying as they approach the final races of the season. Verstappen is known for his strong performance in wet conditions, which could shift the dynamics of the race in Interlagos. The rivalry is not only personal but rooted in the significant stakes of the championship, with both drivers eager for victory. Compounding this is the strong showing from Ferrari and Mercedes, ensuring the battle remains competitive across the grid and heightening the pressure on all teams involved.
In the Interlagos paddock, Tom Clarkson is joined by Formula 2 championship leader and McLaren academy driver Gabriel Bortoleto to preview the Sao Paulo Grand Prix in Brazil.
Max Verstappen leads Lando Norris by 47 points in the Drivers’ World Championship. With four races and two F1 Sprints left this season, there's a total of 120 points still to race for.
Rain is a possibility in Brazil. A grid penalty is also possible for Verstappen, if he takes a new power unit. What impact could those factors have on the outcome this weekend? Will Max change his approach to racing Lando after being punished in Mexico? And with Ferrari closing the gap in the Constructors’ Standings, and targeting a third win in a row, are McLaren starting to feel the pressure?
You’ll also hear Lewis Hamilton describe what it means to be driving Ayrton Senna’s 1990 title-winning McLaren around the track on Saturday. Plus, having been heavily linked to the second seat at Sauber for 2025, Tom asks Gabriel what he can tell us about his future.
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