Formula 1: The lessons of the Sao Paulo Grand Prix

Sao Paulo had it all. In addition to collisions, Formula 1 fans will also experience a premiere winner in George Russell at the penultimate race of the season. At Red Bull there is trouble between the drivers.

Russell shines at Mercedes

George Russell is the 113th driver in Formula 1 history to win a Grand Prix. The Englishman even managed that in an impressive manner in São Paulo in front of his Mercedes team-mate Lewis Hamilton. Even a water leak in the car, which he didn’t know anything about, didn’t stop him from winning. “I’m speechless,” said Russell, before finding many words and thanking family and friends for their support. Breakdowns had cost him victory as Hamilton’s Corona replacement two years ago in Bahrain. Now Russell was the one who secured Mercedes’ first success of the year. “We’ve worked so hard this year to be where we are now. We’re fighting for the front row, for the podium and getting a double win. I’m really happy for the whole team,” said Hamilton, who is his wants to get his first win of the season in Abu Dhabi.

Verstappen and Perez in a clinch

Max Verstappen, who has long been established as Formula 1 world champion, refuses to support his loyal adjutant Sergio Perez and does not let him pass on the last lap. And that despite the fact that the Mexican is still fighting for runner-up in the World Championship. “Of course I’m disappointed after everything I’ve done for him,” admitted Perez, visibly upset. Verstappen rejected the announcement of the team’s performance over the last few meters: “I told you last time that you shouldn’t ask me to do that again, okay?” Team boss Christian Horner and motorsport consultant Helmut Marko were embarrassed. Verstappen’s refusal is said to have originated in Monaco this year. A crash by Perez shortly before the end of qualifying robbed Verstappen of the chance of pole position. For Abu Dhabi, however, the Dutchman Perez has promised his help in the battle for positions.

There is nothing to get for Schumacher and Vettel

Aston Martin driver Sebastian Vettel eleventh in the penultimate Formula 1 race of his career, Haas driver Mick Schumacher in his possibly penultimate Grand Prix 13th – the German yield in Brazil was disappointing. “It felt like more all the time, but in the end our strategy of starting behind the safety car with the used medium tires was no longer possible,” said Vettel about the final phase of the race. “I did what I could do, that was all I could do.” Vettel resigns at the end of the season. Schumacher has to worry that Haas will sign Nico Hülkenberg as the second driver alongside Denmark’s Kevin Magnussen. No points in Interlagos is no argument to stick with him. “Sometimes it’s your year and sometimes it’s not. I don’t think this year was mine,” admitted Schumacher.