Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace

Layout & Character

Nestled within the bustling metropolis of São Paulo, the Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace, universally known as Interlagos, stands as one of Formula 1's most revered and historically significant venues. Its name, 'Interlagos,' literally translates to 'between lakes,' referring to its original location between two large artificial reservoirs, Guarapiranga and Billings. The circuit is distinctive for its anti-clockwise configuration, a rarity on the F1 calendar that places unique physical demands on drivers, particularly on their neck muscles.

The current 4.309 km layout, introduced in 1990, retains much of the spirit of the original longer track while offering a more compact and intense racing experience. It begins with the iconic 'Senna S' (Curva do S do Senna), a fast, downhill left-right chicane that leads into the challenging Curva do Sol. The track then sweeps through a series of medium-speed corners before entering the long, uphill 'Subida dos Boxes' straight, which provides a dramatic run to the finish line and a prime overtaking opportunity thanks to its DRS zone. Elevation changes are a constant feature, contributing significantly to the circuit's character and the dynamic nature of the racing.

Driving challenge

Interlagos presents a formidable test for both car and driver. The anti-clockwise direction is a primary physical challenge, requiring specific conditioning. The circuit's undulating nature, particularly the steep climb from the final corner to the start/finish line, demands a robust power unit and precise throttle control. Braking zones, especially into the 'Senna S' and Turn 4, are critical, often leading to lock-ups and opportunities for overtakes. The track surface itself is known for being abrasive, leading to higher tyre degradation than at many other circuits. This, combined with the often-unpredictable São Paulo weather, makes tyre management and strategic calls paramount. Drivers must master a blend of high-speed commitment and technical precision to extract performance here.

Notable F1 moments

Interlagos has been the stage for some of Formula 1's most dramatic and memorable moments, often serving as the season finale or a pivotal late-season race. The 2008 Brazilian Grand Prix remains etched in history, with Lewis Hamilton snatching his first world championship from Felipe Massa on the very last corner of the final lap. Just a year prior, in 2007, Kimi Räikkönen secured his sole world title in a thrilling three-way battle against the McLaren drivers. Ayrton Senna's emotional 1991 victory, where he battled gearbox issues to win his home race, remains an iconic display of grit and determination. More recently, the 2012 season finale saw Sebastian Vettel overcome an early collision to secure his third consecutive world championship, once again highlighting Interlagos's capacity for high-stakes drama.

What to watch on race weekend

When F1 arrives at Interlagos, several elements consistently shape the race weekend. The weather is notoriously fickle; sudden downpours can transform the race, often leading to safety car periods and strategic gambles. The circuit's two DRS zones – on the main straight and between Turns 3 and 4 – are crucial for overtaking, but the tight, technical sections demand a well-balanced car for consistent lap times. Pit strategy is often complex due to the abrasive track and potential for weather changes, making tyre choice and stop timing critical. Finally, the passionate Brazilian crowd creates an unparalleled atmosphere, their energy often fueling the on-track action and adding an extra layer of intensity to every moment.