McLaren’s Lando Norris triumphed at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix on Sunday, extending his Formula One championship lead to 24 points after a thrilling race marked by drama, penalties, and remarkable comebacks. Norris, who started from pole, secured his seventh win of the season, while teammate and title rival Oscar Piastri finished fifth after receiving a penalty for causing a collision.
Mercedes’ teenage rookie Kimi Antonelli impressed with a career-best second-place finish, holding off a charging Max Verstappen, who delivered a stunning drive to third for Red Bull despite starting from the pitlane and suffering an early puncture. “Crazy race,” said Norris. “I don’t think we were the quickest today, but I’m glad to take home the win.”
Piastri’s 10-second penalty for a clash with Antonelli on lap five proved costly, taking Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc out of the race. The incident sparked debate, with Leclerc himself saying it wasn’t entirely Piastri’s fault. Meanwhile, Verstappen’s fightback through the field — including a daring overtake on George Russell for third — kept fans on edge as he pushed hard for the podium.
George Russell finished fourth for Mercedes, helping the team strengthen its hold on second place in the constructors’ standings behind McLaren. Haas rookie Oliver Bearman again impressed with sixth place, while Ferrari endured a nightmare race with both Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton retiring early after collisions.
With just three races and one sprint remaining, Norris now leads the standings with 390 points, followed by Piastri on 366 and Verstappen on 341. The next race will be held in Las Vegas on November 22.