Max Verstappen Triumphs from 17th on the Grid at São Paulo Grand Prix, Breaking 10-Race Winless Streak and Closing in on Fourth F1 Title
Max Verstappen powered through a soaked Interlagos circuit, climbing from 17th place on the grid to take a stunning victory at the São Paulo Grand Prix. This win broke his 10-race winless streak and brought him closer to securing a fourth F1 drivers’ championship. Verstappen delivered a flawless performance, skillfully overtaking rivals after a challenging qualifying session.
Joining him on the podium were Alpine drivers Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly, adding an unexpected twist to the race results. Meanwhile, Lando Norris, who started on pole, struggled throughout and ultimately finished sixth, likely ending his title aspirations for this season.
World Reactions: What Global Headlines Are Saying
The Times – “I made mistakes but Verstappen was just lucky, says Norris”
In the UK, *The Times* highlighted Norris’s post-race reflections. After losing his early lead to George Russell and pitting during a virtual safety car, Norris fell behind Verstappen. A red flag shortly after, following a heavy crash involving Franco Colapinto, allowed Verstappen to change tires, which ultimately contributed to his victory. While Norris acknowledged his mistakes, he suggested Verstappen’s victory had an element of luck.
La Gazzetta dello Sport – “Verstappen’s hunger eats away at Norris’ talent”
In Italy, La Gazzetta dello Sport celebrated Verstappen’s flawless drive and his ability to outshine Norris. The publication emphasized Verstappen’s perfect execution compared to Norris’s early missteps, including issues with the aborted start. They noted that few drivers in F1 history could achieve what Verstappen did from 17th, underscoring why he remains the one to beat.
De Telegraaf – “Verstappen takes Schumacher record and nears 1,000 days as leader”
In the Netherlands, De Telegraaf highlighted Verstappen’s achievement in surpassing Michael Schumacher’s record for consecutive days at the top of the F1 drivers’ standings. Verstappen has now led for 897 days, surpassing Schumacher’s record of 896 days, which spanned from September 24, 2000, to March 9, 2003. Verstappen’s dominance began with his 2022 Spanish Grand Prix win on May 22, and his reign could extend further if he claims the title in Las Vegas.
L’Equipe – “Two guys from a karting club on the same podium: Ocon and Gasly shine in the rain”
In France, L’Equipe celebrated Alpine’s double podium, achieved by Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly in Brazil’s wet conditions. Both drivers showed composure, each maintaining a clean race to secure podium finishes alongside Verstappen. Ocon even led the race briefly before Verstappen’s Turn 1 pass. This achievement was a milestone for the Alpine team, especially given Ocon and Gasly’s historically strained relationship. In a nostalgic moment, they celebrated together, recalling their early days preparing for wet racing in go-karts as young drivers.