The 2024 Brazil Grand Prix unfolded as a masterclass of racing strategy and skill, with Max Verstappen proving once again why he is considered the pinnacle of the modern Formula One. Coming from the back of the grid riding in 17th place, he swiftly passed his opponents to take first and win the Brazil Grand Prix.

Issues with the Weather

Under challenging rainy conditions at the Interlagos Circuit, Verstappen navigated the treacherous track with supreme confidence, systematically dismantling his competitors’ hopes. McLaren’s Lando Norris found himself particularly disadvantaged by a critical pit strategy that ultimately cost him crucial championship points. The race was a pivotal moment in the season, with Verstappen expanding his championship lead and demonstrating why Red Bull Racing continues to be the team to beat. The unpredictable weather added an extra layer of complexity to the race, testing the drivers’ adaptability and decision-making under pressure, with Verstappen emerging as the unquestionable master of these challenging conditions. The wet conditions posed significant challenges for all drivers. As raindrops pelted the track and visibility remained challenging, Verstappen’s performance was nothing short of remarkable, proving again why  considered one of the most talented drivers of his generation.

Verstappen’s Legendary Comeback

With only being able to qualify in 12th place and with the five grid drop penalty, Verstappen was forced to start at the back of the grid in 17th place. However, during the race, he was able to carve through the field passing both Mercedes and McClarrens as he took control of the situation, casually describing the chaotic track as being “Simply lovely” in an interview. He also took full advantage of the strategic calls during red flags and safety cars to pull himself up for the win. Red Bull really seemed to give him wings as he confidently took on Esteban Ocon to accomplish the leading position within the race. Despite having the same car and strategy, his teammate Sergio Perez was only able to finish in 11th place. Verstappen’s ability to maintain speed, make calculated overtakes, and manage the slippery surface set him apart from his competitors, ultimately proving that in Formula 1, it’s not just about raw speed, but about adaptability, skill, and mental fortitude in the most demanding conditions.

McLaren’s Strategic Misstep 

In a dramatic turn of events at the São Paulo Grand Prix, McLaren’s hopes of challenging Max Verstappen were derailed by a critical strategic error. Lando Norris had been running impressively in second place, positioning himself as a potential threat to Verstappen’s dominance, when the team made a pivotal pit stop decision that would prove costly. The timing of the pit call proved disastrous, effectively surrendering Norris’s hard-earned track position and squandering valuable championship points in the process. McLaren’s gamble ultimately backfired, leaving the team to rue a missed opportunity in what could have been a breakthrough moment in their championship campaign.

Other Mishaps

The tricky weather led to multiple safety cars coming out to take out drivers from their accidents. In total, this race had the most number of drivers not finishing the race by a total of five drivers. Carlos Sainz, Franco Colapinto, Alex Albon, Lance Stroll, and Nico Hulkenberg were all forced to retire early on in the race, causing confusion among fans. The rain also caused the qualifying race, which is usually held the Saturday of the race weekend, to be pushed back to the day of the race. 

Frenchmen Make a Comeback

Yet, the Alpine F1 Team cannot be forgotten in the race, as they managed to be one of the top finishers in the race, with Esteban Ocon in 2nd and Pierre Gasly in 3rd. The team cut through the watered track like submarines, causing people to react with awe and disbelief. Ocon and Gasly’s  double podium led the team to go up in the Constructors Championship to 6th place right above Haas Ferrari. 

The 2024 Brazilian Grand Prix truly portrayed the idea that anything can happen from a single race. The tumultuous events from Alpine making an unexpected double podium to Verstappen rising back up to the top, the next race in Las Vegas is one to look out for.