P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Well, here is a turn up for the book!
Max Verstappen has been voted the second favorite to potentially make F1 history by becoming the first driver to win a grand prix starting from the pit lane. Verstappen had a rough qualifying session at the São Paulo Grand Prix, exiting in Q1 due to lack of speed only for the second time in his 229-race F1 career. Despite qualifying in 16th place, adjustments were made to the RB21 car, including fitting a new power unit and changing the suspension set-up. As a result, Verstappen will have to start the race from the pit lane, alongside Haas driver Esteban Ocon. In a RacingNews365 poll following qualifying, 30.5% of voters, out of almost 4,300 votes, believed Verstappen could still win the São Paulo GP, showing faith in his capabilities despite the challenging circumstances he faces. The poll’s winner was Lando Norris, who received 44% of the votes, followed closely by Verstappen. Other top contenders included Kimi Antonelli starting second, and Norris’ teammate, Oscar Piastri, in fourth place. Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, starting from third and 13th on the grid respectively, received 3.75% and 2.24% of the votes. Isack Hadjar from Racing Bulls and Mercedes’ George Russell each received 0.65% of the votes.
