Lando Norris delivered a masterful performance to win the São Paulo Grand Prix and take a major step toward his maiden Formula 1 world championship. The McLaren driver held his nerve under intense pressure at Interlagos to secure a crucial victory, extending his lead in the title race over teammate Oscar Piastri.
Starting from pole position, Norris controlled the race from start to finish, displaying the composure and precision of a driver ready to be crowned champion. The Briton’s triumph, his seventh of the season, gives him a 24-point advantage over Piastri, with just three races remaining in Las Vegas, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi.
Behind him, Kimi Antonelli produced a superb drive to claim his career-best second place for Mercedes, while Max Verstappen delivered another sensational recovery drive, charging from 19th on the grid to third after starting from the pit lane. The Red Bull driver had endured a poor qualifying session and took a new engine before the race, but his relentless pace through the field was a reminder that he remains a formidable force in the championship fight.
Norris, however, was untouchable. He also triumphed in the sprint race earlier in the weekend, collecting maximum points and showing renewed confidence after a mid-season slump. “Just ignore everyone who talks crap about you and focus on yourself,” Norris said after the race, reflecting on his resurgence since trailing Piastri by 34 points earlier in the season.
Piastri’s title hopes took another hit after a costly 10-second penalty for colliding with Antonelli on the opening lap. Although he fought back to finish fifth, the damage to his championship challenge was clear. The Australian has struggled to maintain his early-season dominance, with Norris now appearing the more composed and confident of the two McLaren drivers.
Verstappen’s charge through the field was one of the standout moments of the race. At times a second faster than Norris, the defending champion admitted he could have challenged for victory had he started higher up. His third-place finish ensures he remains mathematically in contention, 49 points behind the leader.
As the season enters its decisive phase, Norris now stands as the clear favorite for the crown, his performances marked by maturity, control, and a quiet belief that the championship is within his grasp.
