Max Verstappen Goes Full Samba With a Supersized Brazilian ID at Interlagos

Max Verstappen brought a little extra Brazilian flair to the Interlagos atmosphere by accepting a unique gift from the locals. Embracing the unmistakable samba spirit that makes the São Paulo Grand Prix one of Formula 1’s most colorful spectacles, the Dutch driver became an ‘official’ Brazilian (not really!), thanks to a supersized ID to prove it.

As the Dutch driver arrived at the paddock for the Qualifying session, he was met with a supersized ID from the race organizers. With his name printed as ‘Max Emilian Verstappen,’ one of the organizers told him, “Now you’re officially Brazilian.”

Having thanked her, the Dutch driver joked that he will be using the ID card in Europe, should the need ever arise.

For Verstappen, Brazil has always been a significant stop on the Formula 1 calendar. The passionate fans, electric grandstand atmosphere and rich racing heritage make the circuit a special destination for drivers and supporters alike.

The offering of the ID card provided a dose of fun to the weekend, proving once again that F1’s biggest personalities can make headlines both on and off the track.

The 29-year-old also knows how to give the crowd what they want on a Sunday afternoon, given he has delivered some of his greatest drives at the venue.

Max Verstappen Has Been a Treat To Watch in Brazil

From his sensational podium charge in 2016 to a wet-weather masterclass in 2024, Verstappen has delivered some of the most memorable drives in F1 history when driving in Brazil. His 2016 drive, when he recovered from 16th place to finish third in tricky conditions, remains one of the standout performances of his career.

The Red Bull driver would raise the bar again in 2019, as he took the win over Lewis Hamilton after a stunning battle during the race. His pace, composure, and decisive overtaking under pressure demonstrated why Interlagos brings out some of his best racing instincts.

However, it wasn’t until the 2024 race that Verstappen established a legacy of being a master of the Interlagos track. Starting from P17, the Dutch driver delivered an incredible recovery drive in the wet to take home a stunning win.

These performances have made Brazil a very special chapter in Verstappen’s racing story, particularly when the track is wet. Verstappen’s performances at Interlagos underline his exceptional adaptability and racecraft.

And it looks like the Dutchman is getting ready to add another chapter to the book.

Interlagos Might Witness Yet Another Max Verstappen Masterclass

Rain and Verstappen starting from the back are a match made in heaven when F1 comes to Brazil, and the 2026 season is headed for a similar theme. Opting for a new power unit component beyond his seasonal allocation quota, the No. 3 driver saw a 30-place grid penalty handed to him before qualifying even began.

Knowing the same, Verstappen didn’t opt to fully participate in the session, only going out for a run to ensure things were running smoothly with his machine. Ultimately, Verstappen will be lining up in P21 for the race start, with ex-Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez taking up the spot right behind him.

As such, the setup is already there for Verstappen to deliver a masterclass yet again, but things might be different for him this year, given Hamilton is the driver starting right in front of him. The field is also scattered with strong drivers all over, but perhaps it will only add to the spectacle, should a Verstappen special be in store for the fans.

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