Brazilian Formula One Grand Prix
The current home of the Brazilian round of the World Formula One Championship - always an exciting event because its normally the last event of the year where the Drivers or Constructors Championships are often decided - is the Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace, Interlagos. It is located in the suburbs 11 miles south of the city of Sao Paolo.
Before 1980, the Interlagos Grand Prix circuit got its name as its located between two large lakes. It fell out of favor however, due to its close proximity to extensive favelas (slums), which were not felt to reflect Formula One's glamorous values, so the race was switched to Rio de Janeiro until 1990, after which the Grand Prix returned to a re-vamped and remodelled Interlagos. The start/finish straight leads into a tricky downhill series of bends, known as the Senna S's, that have ended many' drivers races on the first lap. Unusually in Formula One, the Interlagos circuit runs counter-clockwise which can cause difficulties for drivers more used to clockwise circuits. Car set-up is essential for success at this challenging circuit as engineers have to try to balance power with downforce and aerodynamic efficiency. The track itself is also tough on the cars, because of its abrasive surface, as Sao Paolo is set at nearly 2'500 feet, the thinner air reduces power output by 8%. However, the track layout and course design is one of which plenty of overtaking opportunities arise throughout the race. |
AUTODROMO JOSE CARLOS PACE, INTERLAGOS
LOCATION: Interlagos, Sao Paolo, Brazil
CIRCUIT TYPE: Purpose-built
CIRCUIT LENGTH: 2.667 Miles
LAP RECORD: 1:11.473 - JP.Montoya 2004
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