The first weekend of November is upon us, and that means one thing: spectacle. The Brazilian Grand Prix has long been the uncrowned champion of thrilling races – there’s always something happening! Apart from the Brazilian samba mentality, there are identifiable factors for this. The legendary Interlagos is known for its challenging layout with elevation changes and razor-sharp turns. Add to that the unpredictable weather in São Paulo, and you have two key ingredients that invariably lead to drama and sensation. Fun? Or dangerous? Either way, we present you with the most bizarre moments in the history of this Grand Prix.
2003: The Race No One Wanted to Win
You’ll remember this one: the Rain Race of 2003. The race is known as one of the most chaotic ever. Due to heavy rainfall, nearly half of the drivers crashed, and the race had to end with a red flag. Amid the chaos and numerous crashes, no one knew who had won, not even the drivers! Only after the race and multiple reviews was Giancarlo Fisichella declared the winner.
2008: A Championship Slipped Away
There’s nothing better than a final round in which the world title is decided, right? Lewis Hamilton can attest to that! In 2008, Felipe Massa seemed to have secured the world title, until something ‘bizarre’ happened: Timo Glock slid out on slicks, and Hamilton was able to capitalize. Tears for Massa and Hamilton became the youngest world champion ever.
2012: Vettel’s ‘Impossible’ Comeback
Another dramatic moment: Sebastian Vettel was hit in the first round of the race and spun, ending up nearly at the back of the field. With a damaged car, he fought his way back to sixth place, just enough to secure his world title. It was one of the most impressive comebacks ever seen at Interlagos!
2019: An ‘Unidentified Flying Object’
During the qualification of the Brazilian GP in 2019, something strange and unexpected happened: a manhole cover flew through the air after a car drove over it. It created a bizarre and dangerous situation, causing the session to be immediately halted. The FIA had to then check the entire circuit for loose objects before the qualification could resume—a very rare occurrence in Formula 1!
