Sao Paulo locks down long-term future on Formula 1 calendar

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The Sao Paulo Grand Prix, a true cathedral of international motorsport, has anchored its place on the calendar for another decade.

Formula 1 has officially finalized a five-year contract extension for Brazil's high-profile event, keeping the legendary Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace – universally known as Interlagos – on the schedule through 2035.

Having welcomed elite racing for more than half a century, the sprawling venue remains a cornerstone of the sport. Its dramatic elevation shifts, undulating asphalt, and relentless counter-clockwise turns consistently generate gripping wheel-to-wheel battles in front of intensely passionate grandstands.

Over decades of drama, Interlagos has served as the final battleground for six Drivers’ Championships, crowning legendary figures including active grid veterans Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton.

It also routinely creates modern classics, such as Max Verstappen’s masterclass drive from 17th on the grid to victory in 2024.

A flourishing local fanbase and economic surge

The agreement highlights Formula 1's soaring commercial momentum across South America. Brazil's national F1 audience has surged to 75.8 million, driven largely by a younger and increasingly diverse audience – with women making up 44% of supporters and 41% under the age of 35.

That enthusiasm translates directly to packed grandstands: attendance at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix reached 303,627 spectators in 2025, climbing from 291,717 attendees the previous year.

That record turnout delivers massive financial dividends to the local area. The 2025 event injected R$2.3 billion into the local economy of Sao Paulo, representing a 9.7% expansion over the previous record set in 2024.

Media footprint has expanded alongside fan interest thanks to last year's broadcast deal with Globo, which grants SporTV subscribers live and on-demand access to every session while bringing 15 Grands Prix per season to free-to-air television viewers nationwide.

To sustain this growth, the office of Sao Paulo Mayor Ricardo Nunes is committing substantial municipal funds toward ongoing facility modernizations, ensuring the aging circuit meets modern standards for teams and spectators alike.

Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, said: “Brazil is an important part of Formula 1’s history and our future, and I am delighted that this five-year extension will see us continue racing in Sao Paulo until 2035.

“The passion of our Brazilian fans is extraordinary, and every time we return to Interlagos we feel their energy in the grandstands and in the city of Sao Paulo.

“Brazil has produced an incredible 33 Formula 1 drivers, including Gabriel Bortoleto and Rafael Camara who are racing this weekend in front of their home crowd, which will add to the many previous unforgettable racing moments in Sao Paulo.

“The continued success and excitement surrounding the event shows why it holds such a special place on our calendar, and this agreement underlines our long-term commitment to Brazil.

“I would like to thank the Mayor of Sao Paulo, Nunes, and the President and CEO of Sao Paulo Grand Prix, Alan Adler, for their continued commitment and investment. Together, we will build on this success and make the experience even better for our fans in the years ahead.”

Honoring tradition while building for the future

The multi-year commitment reassures traditionalists while providing promoter stability in an era where historic tracks face increasing pressure from shiny new street venues. Interlagos continues to retain its status as an irreplaceable driver favorite.

Adler, CEO of Sao Paulo Grand Prix, said: “The extension of the contract of the Sao Paulo Grand Prix until 2035 is a source of immense pride, and represents recognition of work built on dedication, investment and a long-term vision.

São Paulo Grand Prix - Free Practice 3 Results

“This renewal reaffirms Sao Paulo’s place amongst the world’s leading motorsport destinations.

“Interlagos is a unique circuit, admired by drivers, teams and fans from all over the world. It has been the setting for memorable races and is an integral part of Formula 1’s history.

“I would like to thank Domenicali and Formula 1 for their trust and partnership, as well as Mayor Nunes and Sao Paulo City Council for their extraordinary support and ongoing investment in the modernisation of Interlagos. This partnership has been fundamental to the growth and success of the event.”

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.