Interlagos, an old-fashioned circuit adored by drivers

The penultimate round of the 2018 season Formula 1 is organized on the traditional Interlagos circuit (“Between the lakes”, in Portuguese) in Sao Paolo (Brazil, November 9-11). Having long held the role of championship final from the early 2000s to 2013, the Brazilian trip remains appreciated by the paddock despite its relative relegation in favor of Abu Dhabi.

November 6th 2010, Interlagos


@HulkHulkenberg – his maiden (and only) F1 pole and he was over a second quicker than Sebastian Vettel (P2) #OnThisDay #F1 #BrazilGP pic.twitter.com/tOrwM2dZ9D

- Formula 1 (@ F1) November 6, 2018

Author of his only pole position on this track in 2010, Nico Hulkenberg (Renault) assimilates a turn like “short, but intense driving. There are many challenges to overcome. It rotates counterclockwise, the neck suffers and it is quite a physical route on the rest of the body as the track is bumpy in places. »

In fact, only four tracks on the calendar run counterclockwise : Interlagos, Austin (Texas), Singapore, Baku (Azerbaijan). Drivers' bodies are therefore not used to turning left more. Furthermore, it is a “circuit which leaves no room for rest” according to Romain Grosjean (Haas).

“Even on the straights, you can't breathe as much as you want. » The pit straight is only “right” in name, as it is cut by long curves to the left. “There is also the altitude, at 800 meters high, since the Mexican GP it’s nothing but it’s still not sea level”, causing a slight loss of engine power.

The only downside according to the Frenchman is the modification of the vibrators. “It’s a shame, it lost some of the charm of the circuit. » According to Kevin Magnussen (Challenge), “Interlagos is laid out the old way. There is banking, it goes up then it goes down. It's not a circuit full of asphalt runoffs, he asserts.

It's fun to drive! We can overtake, but it’s not easy,” specifies the Dane. In order to have a good opportunity, it is crucial to successfully complete the last, uphill turn. « The last left is essential, continues Sergio Pérez (Racing Point Force India). You have to keep a good speed on this hill. »

Finally, the last important aspect of Interlagos is its weather, which is often unpredictable at this time of year. We remember the 2008 and 2012 titles decided in changing conditions, not necessarily pleasant for the drivers, but captivating for the fans. “It’s often hot and humid,” says, “I like this unpredictable side”, concludes Sergio Pérez.