Lando Norris Triumphs in Sao Paulo Grand Prix as Mercedes Clinch Constructors' Championship

Lando Norris of McLaren secured a thrilling victory at the Sao Paulo Formula One Grand Prix, held at Interlagos in Sao Paulo, Brazil. This win marks McLaren's first since August and Norris's 14th career win and 50th podium. The race, which started and ended in wet conditions, saw Mercedes clinch their ninth Formula One constructors' world championship, completing a title double. This is the team's first constructors' title since 2021.

Norris, starting from pole position for the second consecutive year in Sao Paulo, led much of the race despite challenging conditions. He commented, "It was a very tough race, very, very tough. A lot of challenges today with the conditions and going onto slicks in the wet is always tough, especially when you are pushing for the lead and trying to catch up a little bit." He added, "The main thing today was I kept it cool and didn’t make any mistakes and had the pace when I needed to. Nice to be back on the top step and what a place to do it as well." Norris finished 14.602 seconds ahead of Red Bull's Max Verstappen, who delivered a masterclass performance, finishing second after starting 21st due to engine penalties. Isack Hadjar of Red Bull finished third, with George Russell fourth for Mercedes and Kimi Antonelli fifth, securing the fastest lap.

The constructors' championship was secured by Mercedes, who needed to score only three points more than Ferrari. The Italian team did not pose a significant threat, with Charles Leclerc finishing eighth after a post-race penalty and Lewis Hamilton ninth in his 400th Grand Prix. Mercedes, whose engines also power McLaren, have now equalled Williams' record of nine constructors' championships. Team boss Toto Wolff expressed pride in the organization, stating, "It was a very strong beginning of the season, and that kind of got us over the line. These last few races have been challenging at times. Today it was difficult, but overall, I’m so proud of the organisation."

Other notable finishes included McLaren's Oscar Piastri in sixth place and Racing Bulls' Liam Lawson in seventh. Nico Hulkenberg took the final point for Audi. In the driver standings, Max Verstappen extended his lead in the race for second place overall, now 17 points ahead of George Russell, who moved up to third.