“Verstappen and Norris Battle Heats Up Ahead of Brazilian GP, While Hamilton Plans Emotional Tribute to Senna
“Verstappen and Norris Battle Heats Up Ahead of Brazilian GP, While Hamilton Plans Emotional Tribute to Senna”
Max Verstappen heads into the 2024 Brazilian Grand Prix with a 47-point lead in the drivers’ championship over McLaren’s Lando Norris. The two rivals have had intense on-track battles in recent weeks, leading to criticism of Verstappen’s aggressive driving style. Verstappen received two 10-second penalties in the Mexican Grand Prix for incidents with Norris—one for forcing him off-track and another for gaining an advantage by re-entering. Previously, Norris had been penalized for an incident with Verstappen at Austin. Despite the scrutiny, Verstappen has dismissed the criticism as “annoying” and claimed that many of his critics lack objectivity. Confident in his decisions, Verstappen emphasized his focus on racing rather than external opinions.
Verstappen may soon need to take a new engine, which could mean a penalty in the season’s final four races. Recent engine troubles surfaced in Mexico, where Red Bull had to use a backup engine. While Verstappen hasn’t confirmed when a new engine will be added, he acknowledged the likelihood of needing one soon, noting the strategic uncertainty of choosing the optimal circuit for such a penalty. However, he remains optimistic about Brazil, where he won in 2023.
This weekend also holds special meaning for Lewis Hamilton, who returns to the circuit that marked his first world title win in 2008. Saturday will be the 14th anniversary of that victory in Sao Paulo, where he famously overtook Timo Glock on the final lap to secure the championship over Ferrari’s Felipe Massa. Hamilton will celebrate the legacy of his hero, Ayrton Senna, by driving the Brazilian icon’s McLaren between events. This tribute coincides with the 30th anniversary of Senna’s passing, making it a deeply emotional return for Hamilton.
The Brazilian GP often favors pole-sitters, with winners starting from pole in eight of the last ten races. Nevertheless, notable exceptions include Hamilton’s 2021 victory from 10th on the grid and Sebastian Vettel’s win from second in 2017. Hamilton, who ranks among the top scorers at Interlagos, aims for his third win of the season and potentially his fourth at the circuit, putting him just behind legends like Schumacher and Prost.
Verstappen’s title defense and Hamilton’s tribute are set to make this a thrilling race. For Norris, the sprint format offers a chance to reduce Verstappen’s lead, intensifying the fight for the championship as the season nears its end.
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