How sprint qualifying for F1's Sao Paulo GP unfolded
An as-it-happened account of what happened in F1's sprint qualifying at Interlagos.
After being absent from the 2020 season calendar due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Formula 1 returns to racing in Brazil this weekend.
A fan favourite, Interlagos hosts this weekend’s 2021 Sao Paulo Grand Prix as Max Verstappen looks to tighten his grip on this year’s title.
The Dutchman dominated the race last time out from third on the grid in Mexico to extend his lead over Lewis Hamilton to 19 points.
In recent years, Brazil has been a favourable track as like Mexico it is at altitude.
Verstappen would have won in 2018 had it not been for a collision with Esteban Ocon, while in 2019, the Red Bull driver reigned supreme.
Sprint qualifying makes its return for this weekend with five more points awarded on Saturday - 3, 2, 1.
Recent Brazil F1 Winners:
2019: Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
2018: Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)
2017: Sebastian Vettel (Ferrari)
2016: Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)
2015: Nico Rosberg (Mercedes)
2014: Nico Rosberg (Mercedes)
2013: Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull)
2012: Jenson Button (McLaren)
2011: Mark Webber (Red Bull)
2010: Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull)
The remainder of the 2021 F1 calendar:
Sao Paulo Grand Prix - November 14
Qatar Grand Prix - November 21
Saudi Arabian Grand Prix - December 5
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix - December 12
