Max Verstappen mounts incredible comeback at Sao Paulo GP to all but clinch F1 championship

Max Verstappen delivered a stunning performance at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, overcoming a challenging start from 17th position to clinch victory and almost secure his fourth consecutive Formula 1 drivers’ championship. The race, held in difficult wet conditions, featured dramatic weather changes, a red flag, two safety car periods, and several crashes, making Verstappen’s feat even more impressive.

As the race unfolded, Verstappen capitalized on the chaotic circumstances, significantly extending his lead in the championship standings over his nearest rival, Lando Norris, who started from pole position but finished sixth. Verstappen now holds a commanding 62-point advantage, meaning he can secure the championship in the next race in Las Vegas on November 23 if he maintains a lead of 60 points or more.

Reflecting on his extraordinary drive, Verstappen expressed disbelief at his performance. “Starting P17, I knew that it was going to be a very tough race,” he stated, according to Formula1.com. “But we stayed out of trouble, made the right calls, stayed calm, and executed when we needed to. All of these things together made that result possible. I mean, it’s unbelievable to win here from so far back.”

His win was marked by a series of strategic decisions, particularly when he chose to remain on track while other drivers, including Norris, opted to pit for tire changes. This decision paid off handsomely when the race was halted due to a crash and worsening weather. After the red flag, Verstappen was able to change tires without losing his position, propelling him into contention for the lead.

Norris, while acknowledging Verstappen’s success, attributed the outcome partly to the unpredictable nature of the race rather than raw talent. “That’s life sometimes – you take a gamble, and it has paid off for them,” he remarked. “It’s not talent, it’s just luck. We were a bit unlucky, that’s all.”

The race weekend itself was marked by a storm that forced a delay in qualifying, which eventually took place on Sunday morning. Norris managed to secure pole, while Verstappen’s qualifying was hampered by a crash involving Lance Stroll, which disrupted his fast lap, leaving him in 12th place. A five-place grid penalty for taking a new engine further pushed him down the order.

The race began with Verstappen quickly making up ground, moving from 17th to 11th within the first lap and reaching sixth by lap 11. As the rain intensified, the strategies of the teams began to diverge. Both Norris and George Russell were called in to change tires, while Verstappen chose to stay out. This key decision set the stage for his remarkable recovery.

After Franco Colapinto’s crash led to a red flag, the race was paused, allowing drivers to regroup. When the race resumed, Verstappen had positioned himself in second place, trailing only Esteban Ocon. The subsequent restart on lap 43 saw Verstappen seize the opportunity to take the lead, demonstrating his prowess in the slippery conditions.

Once in front, Verstappen showcased his skill, finishing nearly 20 seconds ahead of Ocon, who secured second place. Ocon’s teammate, Pierre Gasly, rounded out the podium in third, marking a significant achievement for the Enstone team, as it was the first time in 11 years both drivers had finished in the top three.

In conclusion, Verstappen’s exceptional comeback drive at the Sao Paulo GP not only highlights his talent but also reinforces his dominance in the current F1 season. With just three races remaining, he is poised to add yet another championship title to his name, further solidifying his legacy in the sport.