Ahead of the São Paulo Grand Prix: Penalties for five drivers – here’s how they’ll line up for today’s race

Following a turbulent 7 November, with a qualifying session that lasted two and a half hours and numerous incidents, one thing is certain: pole position goes to McLaren driver Lando Norris, his third in a row in Brazil.

Further down the grid, however, there are numerous question marks, as the grid penalties begin with George Russell, who finished second in qualifying. So, let’s take it in order.

The English Mercedes driver had to have a new internal combustion engine fitted, which means he’ll be moved back five places. Russell will therefore not start from P2, as he did after qualifying, but from P7.

Alongside pole-sitter Norris, his World Champion successor Kimi Antonelli will start the race, followed by the surprises from the final practice session – Liam Lawson (Racing Bulls) and Nico Hülkenberg (Audi) on the second row.

Next come Isack Hadjar (Red Bull Racing) and Oliver Bearman in the Haas, followed by Russell in P7 ahead of Fernando Alonso in P8 – the best qualifying position for an Aston Martin-Honda this season.

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Sao Paulo: Das Rennen

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08.11.2026 - 17:10

The top ten is rounded off by Alex Albon in the Williams and Oscar Piastr in the McLaren. Behind Grand Prix debutant Rafael Câmara in P11 come Arvid Lindblad (Racing Bulls) and Carlos Sainz (Williams), followed by the drivers who have been demoted due to penalties.

Charles Leclerc, fourth-fastest in qualifying, must drop back ten places, putting him in P14. Behind the Monegasque driver will be: Colapinto, Gasly, Stroll, Bottas and Bortoleto.

Next come the two world champions with penalties: Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen. Hamilton starts with a 10-place grid penalty, like Leclerc, but following another engine problem in the third free practice session, he has been fitted with a completely new power unit, which ultimately means he will start 65 places back.

Because Lewis Hamilton took part in Q2 but Max Verstappen did not, the Briton will start one place ahead of the Dutchman (who actually has to drop back 30 places).

Bringing up the rear of the field is the Mexican Sergio Pérez in the Cadillac. Although he is also 30 places back, like Max, Verstappen was the faster driver in Q1, so ‘Checo’ will start right at the back.

All this could still change if a team decides to let a driver start from the pit lane.