Overview
- Lando Norris leads the drivers’ standings by one point over Oscar Piastri, with Max Verstappen 36 points back and four events remaining, including two sprint weekends.
- Forecasts point to wet conditions in Interlagos, with rain expected to affect qualifying and the sprint, a scenario that has previously suited Verstappen.
- Verstappen insists he feels no pressure and says only perfect weekends plus “a bit of luck” will keep his bid for a fifth straight title alive.
- McLaren faces renewed claims of favoritism toward Norris from figures such as Bernie Ecclestone and Jos Verstappen, while CEO Zak Brown reiterates the team will not impose orders to back one driver.
- Norris arrives after a commanding Mexico win that restored his points lead, as Piastri’s recent dip has drawn scrutiny, and McLaren has already secured the Constructors’ Championship.