The 2026 Brazilian GP will bring Formula 1 back to one of its most famous venues, the Autódromo José Carlos Pace in São Paulo, better known as Interlagos. The circuit has hosted several championship battles and memorable moments over the years.
From Ayrton Senna’s emotional home victory to Lewis Hamilton’s first world title, the track has plenty of history.
Here are its specifications, records and historic races ahead of the November race weekend.
Interlagos Circuit Location and History
The circuit is located in the southern part of São Paulo, Brazil, in the Interlagos district. It is approximately 20 km from the city center and is surrounded by residential areas and the Guarapiranga Reservoir.
Its construction began in 1938, and the venue welcomed its first Formula 1 World Championship race in 1973. The original circuit featured a much longer layout, but organizers introduced a shorter configuration in 1990.
The current track continues to host major motorsport events, including Formula 1’s São Paulo Grand Prix.
What Are the Interlagos Circuit Specifications?
Interlagos features a 4.309-kilometer (2.677 miles) track where drivers complete 71 laps during the Grand Prix. Its layout includes the famous Senna S, a technical middle section and a fast final sector.
Here are the main circuit specifications.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Circuit name | Autódromo José Carlos Pace |
| Location | São Paulo, Brazil |
| Circuit length | 2.677 miles |
| Race distance | 190.064 miles |
| Number of laps | 71 |
| First F1 Grand Prix | 1973 |
| Lap record | 1:10.540 |
| Record holder | Valtteri Bottas |
| Record year | 2018 |
The circuit’s 43-meter (141 ft.) elevation change also creates different challenges for drivers. They climb uphill through the final sector before reaching the start-finish straight, while the downhill approach to Turn 1 gives them an opportunity to overtake.
Who Holds the Interlagos Lap Record?
Valtteri Bottas holds the official Formula 1 lap record at Interlagos with a time of 1:10.540. He set this mark during the 2018 Brazilian Grand Prix while driving for Mercedes.
Michael Schumacher holds another important record at the circuit. The German won four races at Interlagos in 1994, 1995, 2000 and 2002, making him the most successful F1 driver at the venue.
What Are the Most Historic Races at Interlagos?
Interlagos has hosted several races that shaped Formula 1 championship battles. Three editions stand out for their memorable moments.
1991 Brazilian Grand Prix
Ayrton Senna finally won his home Grand Prix in 1991 after several unsuccessful attempts. However, his McLaren developed gearbox problems during the closing stages. He lost several gears and had to finish the race using sixth gear.
Despite the mechanical trouble and physical exhaustion, Senna held on to beat Riccardo Patrese and celebrate his first Brazilian GP victory.
2008 Brazilian Grand Prix
Lewis Hamilton secured his first Formula 1 World Championship at Interlagos in one of the sport’s most dramatic finishes. Felipe Massa won the race for Ferrari, but Hamilton needed fifth place to beat him in the championship.
Timo Glock’s decision to stay on dry tires during the closing laps allowed Hamilton to pass him under wet conditions at the final corner. The British driver finished fifth and claimed the title by just one point. This race marked the beginning of Hamilton’s record-equalling seven championship titles.
2012 Brazilian Grand Prix
Sebastian Vettel secured his third consecutive World Championship at Interlagos after a difficult opening lap. Bruno Senna made contact, sending his Red Bull down the field.
However, Vettel recovered to finish sixth, while Fernando Alonso took second behind race winner Jenson Button. Those results gave Vettel enough points to retain his championship.
Interlagos’ Legacy
Interlagos continues to hold a special place in Formula 1 history because of the drivers and moments that have shaped its legacy. From Senna’s determination to Hamilton’s first title, the circuit has witnessed some of the sport’s biggest celebrations.
The next chapter begins on race day, Sunday, November 8, when the 2026 Brazilian Grand Prix returns to São Paulo.
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