Does F1 Still Race At Interlagos?

Yes, Formula 1 still races at Interlagos. The São Paulo Grand Prix, held at the Autódromo José Carlos Pace, remains a key fixture on the F1 calendar. Despite the change in official event name from the Brazilian Grand Prix to the São Paulo Grand Prix in 2021, the race continues to take place at the same historic venue in the south zone of São Paulo, Brazil.

Interlagos has hosted Formula 1 races consistently since the 1990s, excluding the 2020 race, which was cancelled due to COVID-19. Its combination of elevation shifts, tight technical corners, and unpredictable weather continues to provide highly competitive racing and unexpected outcomes. The circuit is contracted to remain on the F1 calendar at least through 2025 under the current promoter agreement.

Why the Name Changed but the Venue Did Not

The race name changed following a new promotional agreement led by São Paulo’s municipal authorities. The updated title, “São Paulo Grand Prix,” was introduced to promote the city directly and secure its place on the global calendar amid external interest from other Brazilian regions, such as Rio de Janeiro.

The track itself, however, remains unchanged. Autódromo José Carlos Pace retains its original layout and character, continuing to challenge both drivers and engineers. The renaming of the event does not impact the circuit’s presence or its historical continuity within the sport.

Interlagos’ Role in Recent F1 Seasons

Interlagos has continued to produce significant championship moments. From intense midfield battles to decisive title-clinching drives, the circuit’s tight layout and limited runoff areas demand maximum concentration and punish errors severely.

Even after the global scheduling disruptions of 2020, Formula 1 returned to Interlagos in 2021 without missing momentum. The circuit has since retained its traditional November slot, typically appearing as one of the final races of the season. In recent years, it has also hosted the Sprint format, further elevating its importance in the final stages of the championship.

Confirmed on the Calendar Through 2030

In November 2023, Formula 1 officially extended its agreement with São Paulo to keep the race at Interlagos through the 2030 season. The renewal secures the circuit’s place on the calendar for the remainder of the decade and reinforces its role as a permanent stop in the late-season schedule.

Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali said: “I am delighted to announce we will be staying at Interlagos until 2030, and I can’t wait for many more years of the wonderful atmosphere that the Brazilian fans bring. Brazil has such a rich racing heritage, and this iconic circuit is a favourite of drivers and fans around the world. It embodies everything that is great about racing, and we look forward to seeing how it develops over the years to come to create an even better experience.”

The city’s administration also sees the race as a cornerstone of its international events calendar. Ricardo Nunes, Mayor of São Paulo, added: “The extension of the contract for the Formula 1 Grande Premio de Sao Paulo, broadcasted in approximately 180 countries, solidifies our city as a global leader in hosting major events with economic and social impact, generating jobs, revenue, and opportunities. Each year, we also advance our sustainability agenda, incorporating innovations to overcome challenges and bring more benefits to the city of Sao Paulo and Brazil.”

The São Paulo Grand Prix at Interlagos remains a critical fixture in the championship calendar, combining competitive racing with strong institutional support and long-term commercial stability.

Written by

George Howson

George Howson is an F1 Chronicle contributor and FIA accredited journalist with over 20 years of experience following Formula 1. A member of the AIPS International Sports Press Association, George has covered F1 races at circuits around the world, bringing deep knowledge and first-hand insight to every race report and analysis he writes.

More articles by George Howson →