This São Paulo Grand Prix will definitely be remembered for Max Verstappen’s spectacular comeback, starting from 17th position to finish on top!
With rain playing havoc, multiple safety cars, and numerous race incidents, this 2024 Brazilian Grand Prix was packed with excitement. Let’s take a closer look at why this race was so thrilling.
Read more:
- The last straw for Verstappen at the São Paulo GP and the FlA’s relentless pursuit is starting to frustrate Red Bull
- Formula 1 heads to Africa with the support of Hamilton and Verstappen, possibly a first since 1993
Verstappen: from P17 to P1 – Simply stunning
From the start, Max Verstappen made it clear he wasn’t about to stay at the back. Starting 17th on the grid, he climbed through the pack as early as Turn 3, showing absolute confidence in his F1 car-even in the wet. As expected, the Red Bull driver was fierce in the rain, pulling off daring overtakes lap after lap, especially in the first corner braking zones, where his moves were masterfully precise. His pass on Esteban Ocon, the race leader at the safety car restart, sealed the deal. He then widened his lead as conditions worsened, once again proving his ability to dominate even in the toughest scenarios. The paddock was full of praise for this performance, which underscores his determination to secure a fourth World Championship title. Honestly it’s been a while since we’ve seen him celebrate a win like that-il’s great to see!
STARTS P17, FINISHES P1 🤩
MAX VERSTAPPEN WINS THE 2024 SAO PAULO GRAND PRIX!!
What an extraordinary drive 👏👏👏#F1 #BrazilGP pic.twitter.com/0KnYj1862x
— Formula 1 (@F1) November 3, 2024
Race incidents: a barrage of safety cars and yellow flags
The Grand Prix was no easy task for race stewards, who managed more incidents than usual. On the warm-up lap, Lance Stroll went off-track, prompting a yellow flag and forcing the grid to abort the start. Shortly after, Nico Hülkenberg’s engine gave out, triggering a Virtual Safety Car. This timing allowed several drivers to change tires, unexpectedly shaking up the grid—-particularly benefiting Alpine F1 Team, who found themselves in P1 and P3. Each new interruption led drivers to rethink strategies, looking for an edge. The flurry of yellow flags and safety cars brought a chaotic pace to the race, adding immense pressure to all competitors.
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Incredible double podium for Alpine F1 Team
While Verstappen made headlines, other drivers also had intense races. Starting from pole, Lando Norris struggled early and quickly lost the lead to George Russell in Turn 1, ultimately finishing sixth-far below his initial expectations. This was particularly surprising given that several lower-ranked starters finished ahead. Alpine’s Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly dazzled, securing a double podium, a historic achievement for the French team that boosted them in the Constructors’ standings from 9th to 6th. Russell, despite a stellar early performance, had to settle for fourth after being overtaken in the closing laps. With overtakes, weather challenges, and penalties, this Brazilian GP reshuffled the deck-definitely one not to miss!
This article explores Verstappen’s stunning victory from 17th position, the numerous safety car interruptions, and the surprising performance of Alpine drivers who secured podium finishes in this rain-soaked 2024 Brazilian Grand Prix.
Featured image: Red Bull Content pool
