Autódromo José Carlos Pace is one of the most thrilling and iconic circuits of Formula 1 in every way. Located in the vibrant city of São Paulo, Brazil, this track is famous for its unique layout, elevation changes, and tricky corners. So, let’s look at every inch of this iconic 4.309 km (2.677 miles) circuit to understand what makes it so special in 2025.
Autódromo José Carlos Pace Track Analysis
Also known as Interlagos, the Autódromo José Carlos Pace runs anti-clockwise, which makes it as rare as it gets and adds another layer of difficulty for the drivers. The track is 4.3 kilometres in length with 15 corners, which makes the race 71 laps long to make up for the full-race distance of about 306 kilometres. But the most dramatic feature of the track is its elevation change of over 40 meters, which means the circuit goes uphill and downhill constantly, testing the driver’s talent.
Key Features Of The Autódromo José Carlos Pace
Starting line and Senna S: The Autódromo José Carlos Pace begins at the start/finish straight, leading quickly into Turn 1, called the Senna S (named after the GOAT Ayrton Senna). This section is a quick downhill “S” curve complex that is one of the best overtaking spots. Drivers have to brake hard and navigate these fast turns with precision, as it drops about 43 meters downhill. The elevation here demands top tyre grip and brakes to handle the downhill speed.
Turns 3 to 7 – Curva do Sol and Descida do Lago: After the Senna S, drivers enter Curva do Sol (Turn 3), a long sweeping left-hander that opens up onto Reta Oposta, the opposite straight. Then comes the tricky downhill left-handers named Descida do Lago (Turns 4 and 5). These turns are fast and downhill, requiring bravery and smooth car control. Not many overtakes happen here, but mistakes can be costly. It leads into the middle technical section of the lap.
Turns 6-7 Ferradura: Often called the Horseshoe because of the shape, these downhill right-hand turns kick off the middle sector, which is twistier and slower. The track becomes more technical here, demanding excellent precision and downforce from the cars.
Sectors 2 and 3: After the middle sector, comes a fast sweeping part, followed by the tricky Junção (Turn 10), a sharp right-hander where precision is key for carrying speed onto the longest straight. Drivers need perfect throttle control exiting Junção to get maximum speed on the pit straight.
Turn 12-15 (Arquibancadas and Subida dos Boxes): This is a technical uphill section with tight corners leading back to the start-finish straight. The elevation here rises sharply, putting more stress on the power unit and rear tyres. These corners require good traction and power delivery on the exit.
Tire Strategy For Autódromo José Carlos Pace
Pirelli brings the C2, C3, and C4 compounds here, which are one step harder than usual due to the smooth but bumpy resurfaced track. Tire wear is moderate, but managing rear tyres, especially on the slippery downhill sections, is a challenge, specifically due to the unpredictable weather conditions and rain anytime. Two-stop strategies are common because of the balance between tyre degradation and overtaking opportunities.
Which Drivers Are The Best At Autódromo José Carlos Pace
The Autódromo José Carlos Pace suits skilled drivers who combine bravery and precision. Drivers like none other than Max Verstappen, the seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, a nd current championship leader Lando Norris have shown strong performances here, mastering the tricky corners and elevation. The track rewards drivers with smooth yet aggressive styles who can manage tyres while attacking.
The lap record is 1:10.540, set by Valtteri Bottas in 2018. About 68% of the lap is taken at full throttle, showing how fast and flowing the track is despite the technical sections.
Overall, Autódromo José Carlos Pace is packed with history and thrill. This track is a true gem of Formula 1 and continues to produce breathtaking moments that make every Sao Paulo Grand Prix unforgettable. If you want to watch a race full of action and strategy, Interlagos is the place to be!
Also read: Brazilian Grand Prix 2025: Key Details, Timings, And Full Schedule
