Max’s Brazil Showdown: Tsunoda Pledges Support in Norris Championship Battle

Max Verstappen can’t wait to race in Brazil again, calling out the “crazy” races that have become legendary at Interlagos. Last year’s win there was a major turning point in his championship battle with Lando Norris.

But this time around, Verstappen is the hunter. He’s trailing Norris by 36 points in the standings as they head to São Paulo.

The three-time world champion explained why Brazil holds a special place in his heart.

“Brazil is a special place for me, not only because of the incredible races and the great moments that we have had there but also because my family in laws are also from Brazil,” he said.

“It can rain heavily there so you can have quite crazy races, especially last year’s race where we won after qualifying 17th, which was an emotional win and an important moment in the Championship.”

That remarkable drive from P17 to victory lane showed just how unpredictable racing at Interlagos can be.

Verstappen will be sporting a special helmet design for the weekend, paying tribute to the country’s racing heritage.

“I will be wearing my special Brazil helmet for this race. It is a place that has a lot of history and a great legacy but also holds so many great memories for me,” he explained.

He’s particularly excited about the design. “I went for traditional colours on the helmet that really stand out, I think the design looks really cool and I’m excited to wear it on track. The fans are super passionate and I always love racing at such an old school track. Seeing that atmosphere and being part of it is incredible.”

## Tsunoda Ready to Help

Verstappen won’t be fighting alone in his title quest. His teammate Yuki Tsunoda seems ready to play the supporting role.

Tsunoda is well aware of the challenges ahead in Brazil, particularly with the weather.

“Brazil is always an exciting race, with weather that can throw up the unexpected. It looks like the rain could play a part in our weekend there again but everyone will be in the same position and it’s about how we maximise the time on track and handle it as a Team,” the Japanese driver said.

The Sprint format adds another layer of complexity to an already unpredictable weekend.

Tsunoda feels he’s hitting his stride at just the right time. “The Sprint format always holds its own challenges but add some rain in there and it could be a crazy weekend! The benefit for me is that across the last two weekends the car has felt great when it has come to race pace, I’m lapping very close to Max and I feel confident in the car and the updates we have made.”

His goals for the weekend are clear.

“If I can be consistent across the two qualifying sessions then we should put ourselves in a strong position to be up there in the Sprint and the race. This weekend is about helping boost our Constructors points and being able to support Max where I can,” Tsunoda concluded.

The team is fighting on two fronts – trying to secure second place in the Constructors’ Championship while also supporting Verstappen’s increasingly difficult title challenge.