Verstappen’s Masterclass in São Paulo: From 17th to Victory in Wet-Weather Thriller
Max Verstappen pulled off a stunning victory at the São Paulo Grand Prix over the weekend, clinching first place from 17th on the grid in a thrilling, rain-soaked race.
The Dutchman, who’s now just inches away from his fourth consecutive World Championship, described the win as “an emotional” one, especially after a disappointing start to the weekend with a qualifying setback. Verstappen’s victory wasn’t just about skill but also a strategic masterstroke by Red Bull, as he expertly handled both the wet conditions and key decisions during a chaotic race marked by red flags, safety cars, and heavy rain.
Verstappen’s climb through the field was swift and surgical. By the first lap, he had already jumped six spots and soon found himself navigating a pack led by Esteban Ocon. The race took a dramatic turn with intensified rain that prompted many drivers, including Norris and Mercedes’ George Russell, to make early pit stops. Red Bull and Alpine, however, gambled by keeping their drivers on worn tires, betting on a red flag. That call paid off when a crash brought out the red flag, allowing Verstappen and Ocon to change their tires without losing time.
The race’s first restart saw Ocon retain the lead momentarily, but a safety car restart following Carlos Sainz’s crash gave Verstappen his opening. He overtook Ocon at the first corner and never looked back, pulling away to secure the win with a comfortable margin.
Reflecting on the race, Verstappen said, “I surprised myself today... It’s been an unbelievable race for us.” His impressive command over the wet track highlighted his comfort in such conditions, something he’s developed through years of practice.
Lando Norris, Verstappen’s closest title contender, had a tougher outing. Starting from pole, Norris lost the lead early and struggled to regain momentum amid the tricky conditions and unfortunate timing with the red flag. He finished sixth, dealing a blow to his championship hopes.
“They got lucky,” Norris commented, frustrated by the timing of the red flag rule, which he and others have criticised for allowing drivers to change tires without losing positions.
Christian Horner, Red Bull’s team principal, praised Verstappen’s drive, calling it “a masterclass” and crediting his team’s strategy under pressure.
“In those conditions, the driver’s skill really comes to the fore,” Horner noted, acknowledging that Verstappen’s ability to remain calm and seize the right moments was crucial.
For Alpine, the race was a breakthrough as well. Ocon and teammate Pierre Gasly took the other podium spots, giving their team a significant boost in the constructors’ standings, moving them up to sixth place. The result marked a dramatic turnaround for Alpine, which has struggled this season but showed resilience on a difficult track.
With just three races left, Verstappen’s 62-point lead over Norris means he could wrap up the championship at the next round in Las Vegas. His performance in São Paulo was a powerful statement, showcasing why he’s often regarded as one of the most skilled drivers in wet conditions.
