Arise, King Fernando - 2023 Sao Paulo GP Review

Max Verstappen may be running away with wins and re-writing records and history books in 2023, but there is so much more to this season than Verstappen's heroics.

Lando Norris and Fernando Alonso, two of the several others who deserved their share or praise and limelight from the 2023 Sao Paulo Grand Prix.

In this episode of the Inside Line F1 Podcast, Soumil Arora, @f1statsguru and Kunal Shah review the F1 Sprint and Grand Prix that was hosted at Interlagos. The temperature effect was at play, yet again, as we saw teams with different fortunes and outcomes through the three day weekend. Either way, Interlagos entertained.

Yes, built on land unsuitable for housing, Interlagos is definitely most-suitable for racing; irrespective of the race format. The F1 Sprint entertained, as did the Grand Prix. In fact, the last lap drag race between Alonso and Sergio Perez was super fun, too.

Are Mercedes going backwards? Did Daniel Ricciardo and Oscar Piastri's opening lap retirement and subsequent rejoining after the Red Flag expose yet another flaw in Formula 1's rule book? They joined the 2023 Sao Paulo Grand Prix a lap down...despite starting from the pit lane on the same lap.

Yuki Tsunoda was another such hero through the weekend. In the AlphaTauri, Tsunoda was battling the likes of Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton. If anything, Mercedes faced a Ferrari-esque race in Sunday's Grand Prix. Usually, Mercedes go quick in race trim, but that wasn't the case at Interlagos.

Lots of narratives and fun moments from the 2023 Sao Paulo Grand Prix. Tune in and re-live most of them. 

(Season 2023, Episode 60)

Follow our hosts on Twitter: Soumil Arora, @f1statsguru and Kunal Shah

Image courtesy: Aston Martin F1 Team

# Inside Line F1 Podcast Episode 60: 2023 São Paulo Grand Prix Review

## Key Points:

1. **Exciting Racing at Interlagos:**
- Despite differing fortunes for teams, Interlagos delivered thrilling racing, both in the Sprint and Grand Prix.
- The last-lap drag race between Sergio Perez and Fernando Alonso was a highlight.

2. **Mercedes' Struggles:**
- Mercedes had a disastrous weekend, with both drivers finishing outside the top 5.
- Toto Wolff called it their worst weekend ever, citing issues with tire degradation and rear wing setup.
- The team's struggles raise concerns about their approach to the 2024 season.

3. **Aston Martin's Resurgence:**
- Sergio Perez and Lance Stroll had strong performances, finishing in the top 5.
- Aston Martin's improved pace was attributed to cooler temperatures and better tire management.
- Fernando Alonso's podium finish was a highlight for the team, his first since the Dutch Grand Prix.

4. **Daniel Ricciardo and Oscar Piastri's Lap Down Controversy:**
- Ricciardo and Piastri were lapped on the opening lap due to a pit stop during a red flag.
- They were not allowed to unlap themselves, despite the unusual circumstances.
- This decision raised questions about the consistency and flexibility of the FIA's rules.

5. **AlphaTauri's Improved Form:**
- Yuki Tsunoda impressed in the AlphaTauri, battling with Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc.
- The team's recent upgrades have helped them close the gap to Williams in the Constructors' Championship.

6. **Lando Norris' Inconsistent Starts:**
- Norris had a poor start in the Sprint but a great start in the Grand Prix.
- His inconsistent starts are a micro story to watch in the remaining races.

7. **Max Verstappen Secures Both Championships:**
- Verstappen clinched both the Drivers' and Constructors' Championships with his victory in Brazil.
- He broke Alberto Ascari's record for wins in a season with 17 victories.

## Overall Message:

The 2023 São Paulo Grand Prix showcased the excitement and unpredictability of Formula 1 racing. While Verstappen's dominance continued, there were several intriguing storylines, including the struggles of Mercedes, the resurgence of Aston Martin, and the controversies surrounding Ricciardo and Piastri's lap down situation. As the season draws to a close, the focus shifts to the remaining races in Las Vegas and Abu Dhabi, where the battles for individual and team honors will reach their climax.