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Lando Norris Sets the Pace in Brazilian GP Opening Practice

2026-11-06 16:41 · source: Autosport · lang: en

Lando Norris demonstrated impressive speed during the opening practice session for the Brazilian Grand Prix in Sao Paulo, topping the timesheets at the Interlagos circuit. The McLaren driver, piloting an upgraded car, managed to outpace the newly crowned champion Kimi Antonelli and veteran contender Max Verstappen. This strong start to the weekend signals a competitive narrative as teams look to finalize their setups for the remainder of the event.

The session was characterized by intense focus from all teams, as the Interlagos track remains one of the most demanding circuits on the Formula 1 calendar. Norris’s performance in the upgraded McLaren suggests that the team has made significant strides in aerodynamic efficiency, allowing him to navigate the technical corners and long straights with greater confidence. The gap between the top drivers remained relatively slim, indicating that the qualifying sessions and the race itself will likely be closely contested.

Kimi Antonelli, fresh off his championship victory, continued his impressive form by securing a top-three finish in the practice session. His ability to consistently challenge more experienced drivers has been a highlight of the current season, and his performance in Sao Paulo further cements his reputation as a rising star in the sport. Meanwhile, Max Verstappen maintained a steady pace, focusing on race simulation and data collection to ensure his car is well-balanced for the varying track conditions expected throughout the weekend.

As the teams analyze the data gathered from this first practice session, the focus will shift toward refining tire management and power unit settings. The unpredictable weather often associated with the Sao Paulo region adds another layer of complexity to the race weekend, forcing teams to remain agile in their strategic planning. Fans and analysts are closely watching the performance of the top contenders, anticipating a thrilling weekend of racing at one of the most historic venues in Formula 1.

Sources: Autosport


Aggregated summary. Original: Autosport