Norris and Verstappen Shine in Thrilling Brazil GP
Lando Norris and Max Verstappen earned the highest F1 Power Rankings for the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, both scoring 9.6. Norris dominated with a pole-to-win double, extending his championship lead. Verstappen executed a spectacular recovery from a pit lane start to finish third, showcasing incredible racecraft. Their contrasting but equally impressive performances highlighted a thrilling weekend.
Lando Norris and Max Verstappen were named the top drivers of the Sao Paulo Grand Prix by the F1 Power Rankings panel, each receiving an impressive 9.6 rating after their outstanding performances.
Why it matters:
This shared top honor highlights the exceptional individual brilliance displayed by both Norris and Verstappen under vastly different circumstances. For Norris, it solidified his championship lead with a perfect weekend, while Verstappen's remarkable recovery drive showcased his unparalleled skill and determination, reminding everyone why he remains a dominant force despite a difficult start.
The details:
- Norris's Dominance: The McLaren driver had a flawless weekend at Interlagos, converting pole position into a Sprint win on Saturday and then repeating the feat for Sunday's Grand Prix. This perfect score allowed him to collect all 33 available points, extending his lead in the Drivers' Championship to 24 points.
- Verstappen's Comeback: After a shock Q1 exit in Saturday's Qualifying, which saw him start from the pit lane, Verstappen orchestrated a stunning comeback. The Red Bull driver meticulously climbed through the field, even leading at one stage, to secure a remarkable third-place podium finish.
- Other Standouts: Former Formula 2 teammates Kimi Antonelli and Oliver Bearman also earned high praise, both receiving a 9.0 rating. Antonelli finished second, while Haas driver Bearman once again scored crucial points.
The big picture:
Verstappen continues to hold the overall lead in the F1 Power Rankings with an 8.4 average, reflecting his consistent top-tier performances throughout the season. Norris's recent dominant displays, including a prior win in Mexico, demonstrate his growing momentum and position him as a serious contender. Oscar Piastri, another strong performer this season, surprisingly did not make the top 10 in the Brazil GP rankings, showing the highly competitive nature of this particular race.
What's next:
As the season progresses, the battle for the top spot in the Drivers' Championship will intensify. Norris's current form suggests he is a strong contender to challenge Verstappen's overall lead, while Verstappen's ability to recover from challenging situations proves he can never be counted out. The consistent performances of drivers like Antonelli and Bearman also point towards an exciting future for Formula 1.