HIGHLIGHTS: See all the action from qualifying at Interlagos as Hamilton heads Verstappen
The F1 Sprint is back this weekend for the third time this season, and that means a mixed-up format for the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, with qualifying on Friday, instead of the usual Saturday.
The drivers fought it out on the Interlagos track for grid slots for the 100km dash Sprint, which will take place on Saturday afternoon, and set the grid order for the Grand Prix itself. And it was Lewis Hamilton who emerged on top, pumping in a lap that was almost half a second quicker than his title rival Max Verstappen in second.
QUALIFYING REPORT: Hamilton beats Verstappen to seal top grid slot for F1 Sprint in Brazil
But some of Hamilton's speed may be down to the new Mercedes engine he has had fitted for this race, which has also incurred him a five place grid penalty – but that will take effect in Sunday's race, not the Saturday Sprint. Hit play on the video above to see how the battle for pole played out in Sao Paulo.
Next Up
Related Articles
UnlockedInside the F1 driver's bubble: The sports psychologist
UnlockedInside the F1 driver’s bubble: The race engineer
ExclusiveHow Williams rebuilt one of their most iconic F1 cars
How Cadillac’s 2026 season has played out so far
BettingWhich F1 driver has been most profitable in 2026?
5 key things we heard from Cadillac after Team Principal change