2026 F1 Brazilian Grand Prix starting grid

In the upcoming São Paulo Grand Prix, Mercedes holds a potential championship-clinching opportunity, as rain forecasted for Sunday may lead to a chaotic race at Interlagos. Kimi Antonelli demonstrated strong pace in Friday's first hour of practice, just 0.082 seconds behind McLaren's Lando Norris, while Mercedes showcased strong one-lap speed during the initial two practice sessions.

This favorable performance could indicate a promising qualifying session for the Silver Arrows, with Red Bull and Ferrari trailing closely behind. However, the race pace is a different story, as F1 simulations show Mercedes leading, with Red Bull and McLaren just a few tenths of a second behind. Ferrari is also close behind, about 0.10 seconds off Mercedes' pace.

The grid for the race is set to be filled throughout the hour, with George Russell, Lewis Hamilton, and Max Verstappen all facing grid penalties due to new engine components. Verstappen is expected to start from the back of the grid, while Russell will take a five-place penalty. The forecast calls for rain, which adds further uncertainty to the race, as any outcome is possible at the iconic Interlagos circuit.