F1: Verstappen To Start São Paulo GP 17th, Norris Claims Pole
Penalty For Verstappen
Reigning Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has been dealt a blow ahead of the São Paulo Grand Prix, with the Dutchman set to start Sunday's race from 17th on the grid. Verstappen was handed the penalty after a stewards' investigation found that he had impeded Fernando Alonso during qualifying.
Norris Claims Pole
McLaren's Lando Norris took full advantage of Verstappen's penalty, claiming his first pole position of the 2023 season. The young Briton set a blistering lap time of 1:08.314, just 0.049 seconds ahead of Red Bull's Sergio Perez.
Mercedes Struggles Continue
Mercedes' struggles continued in qualifying, with Lewis Hamilton and George Russell qualifying down in 8th and 9th respectively. The Silver Arrows have been off the pace all weekend and will need to find significant improvements if they are to challenge for victory on Sunday.
Ferrari Hoping For Home Advantage
Ferrari will be hoping to take advantage of their home race to close the gap to Red Bull and Mercedes in the championship standings. Carlos Sainz qualified 3rd, while Charles Leclerc will start 4th. The Scuderia will be confident of challenging for a podium finish, if not the race win.
Race Outlook
The São Paulo Grand Prix is set to be an exciting race, with several drivers in contention for victory. Verstappen will have it all to do from 17th on the grid, but he has shown in the past that he can never be ruled out. Norris will be aiming to convert his pole position into a maiden Formula 1 victory, while Red Bull and Ferrari will be determined to deny him.