Formula 1 returns to Brazil from November 6-8, 2026, for the São Paulo Grand Prix at the Autódromo José Carlos Pace, better known as Interlagos. The historic circuit is one of the championship’s most recognizable venues, combining elevation changes, demanding corners and unpredictable racing conditions.
Located in São Paulo, Interlagos has hosted Formula 1 since 1973 and remains a favorite among drivers and spectators. Its relatively short lap, technical middle sector and long uphill run towards the finish create opportunities for close racing and late position changes.
São Paulo Grand Prix 2026 Schedule
The race weekend takes place over three days, with practice sessions on Friday and Saturday, followed by qualifying and Sunday’s Grand Prix.
| Session | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Practice 1 | Friday, November 6 | 17:30-18:30 |
| Practice 2 | Friday, November 6 | 21:00-22:00 |
| Practice 3 | Saturday, November 7 | 16:30-17:30 |
| Qualifying | Saturday, November 7 | 20:00-21:00 |
| Race | Sunday, November 8 | 19:00 |
The Interlagos Circuit
The Autódromo José Carlos Pace measures 4.309 kilometres and features 71 laps over a total race distance of 305.879 kilometres.
| Circuit Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Circuit | Autódromo José Carlos Pace |
| Location | São Paulo, Brazil |
| First Formula 1 Grand Prix | 1973 |
| Circuit length | 4.309 km |
| Race laps | 71 |
| Race distance | 305.879 km |
| Fastest lap listed | 1:10.540 – Valtteri Bottas (2018) |
Construction of Interlagos began in 1938, with its original design drawing on several established racing circuits in Europe and North America. Formula 1 made its championship debut at the venue in 1973, when Brazilian driver Emerson Fittipaldi won in front of his home crowd. He repeated the achievement in 1974, before Carlos Pace secured another Brazilian victory in 1975.
The modern layout retains much of the circuit’s traditional character. Drivers negotiate the downhill Senna S immediately after the opening corner, followed by a sequence of technical turns through the infield. The final sector climbs towards the start-finish straight, where slipstreaming and overtaking opportunities can influence the outcome.
What to Expect from the 2026 Race
Interlagos has a reputation for producing dramatic Formula 1 races. Its compact layout keeps lap times relatively short, while changing weather conditions can complicate tyre strategies and race decisions.
The combination of heavy braking zones, varying corner speeds and elevation changes also places significant demands on car setup. Teams must balance straight-line performance with the grip needed through the circuit’s slower sections.
Brazilian driver Gabriel Bortoleto adds another point of interest for local spectators, bringing home representation to a race weekend already known for its enthusiastic atmosphere.
With 71 laps scheduled for Sunday, November 8, the São Paulo Grand Prix offers another opportunity for teams and drivers to secure valuable championship points as the 2026 Formula 1 season approaches its conclusion.