2025 F1 Brazil GP Starting Grid Revealed After Sao Paulo Sprint

The grid for the 2025 Brazilian Grand Prix has been set following a dramatic Saturday Sprint session in Sao Paulo. Teams navigated challenging conditions, with surprise performances and unexpected setbacks shaping the lineup for Sunday's main event. Red Bull's Max Verstappen secured pole, but strong showings from McLaren and Mercedes indicate a tight battle ahead.

Why it matters:

The Brazilian Grand Prix is renowned for its unpredictability, and the 2025 edition promises another thrilling spectacle. The varied performances during Saturday's sprint and qualifying sessions have created a mixed grid, offering numerous opportunities for overtakes and strategic gambles. A strong starting position at Interlagos is always crucial, but the potential for sudden rain or safety car interventions means even those further down the grid could contend for points, making Sunday's race a must-watch for championship implications and individual team aspirations.

The details:

• Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing) clinched pole position, reaffirming his dominant form despite facing strong challenges throughout the weekend. He will start from P1, aiming to convert his advantage into another victory.
• Lando Norris (McLaren) showcased exceptional pace, securing P2 on the grid. McLaren's consistent performance positions them as a significant threat to Red Bull, particularly with their strong race trim and strategic prowess.
• George Russell (Mercedes) qualified P3, a solid result for the German team, indicating potential for a podium finish. Mercedes appears to have found a better balance, and Russell's strong racecraft could be key.
• Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) starts from P4. Ferrari has shown flashes of speed, but consistency remains a question. Leclerc will be looking to capitalize on any early race chaos to move up the order.
• Liam Lawson (Racing Bulls Team) delivered a standout performance, qualifying P5. This is a significant achievement for the Racing Bulls, highlighting their improved package and Lawson's growing confidence.
• Carlos Sainz (Williams) managed P6, a strong result for Williams, suggesting their car performs well on this circuit. Sainz will be focused on defending his position and potentially challenging the cars ahead.
• Oscar Piastri (McLaren) starts P7, placing both McLarens in strong points-scoring positions. Piastri will be eager to join his teammate in challenging the frontrunners.
• Andrea Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) qualified P8, marking a commendable showing for the young driver. This is a crucial experience for Antonelli as he continues to adapt to F1.
• Pierre Gasly (Alpine) secured P9, a respectable result for Alpine. The team will be aiming for a double points finish, with Gasly leading the charge.
• Nico Hulkenberg (Sauber) rounded out the top 10, a positive outcome for Sauber, indicating their potential to fight for the lower points positions.
• Other notable positions include:
  • Franco Colapinto (Alpine) in P11, showing strong potential.
  • Esteban Ocon (Haas F1 Team) starting P12.
  • Oliver Bearman (Haas F1 Team) in P13.
  • Isack Hadjar (Racing Bulls Team) in P14.
  • Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) will start P15 after a challenging qualifying session. Ferrari will need a strong strategy and Hamilton's experience to climb through the field.
  • Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin Racing) in P16, facing an uphill battle to score points.
  • Gabriel Bortoleto (Sauber) starting from P17.
  • Lance Stroll (Aston Martin Racing) in P18, both Aston Martins struggling for pace.

What's next:

Sunday's Brazilian Grand Prix promises an enthralling race with a diverse starting grid. The battle for the lead between Verstappen, Norris, and Russell will be intense, while Ferrari's Leclerc and Hamilton face the challenge of fighting through the field. With Interlagos known for its unpredictable weather and potential for safety cars, strategic decisions and tire management will play a pivotal role. Keep an eye on the midfield, where several teams, including Racing Bulls and Williams, could spring a surprise and secure valuable points, shaping the constructors' championship standings. The race is set to be a tactical masterclass and a test of driver skill under pressure.