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
All the key moments from the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix
'I'm one of the best out there and I'm not afraid to say it' – Ocon
UnlockedHow the faster Hadjar helped Verstappen to second place in Baku
Bortoleto handed penalty after yellow flag infringement
Vasseur offers Ferrari upgrade promise to frustrated Leclerc
The 2026 Qualifying and race head-to-heads so far