The origins: 1940
The Interlagos circuit was originally built in 1940 by a group of São Paulo businessmen who wanted to bring international motorsport to Brazil. Designed by Brazilian engineer Wilson Fittipaldi Sr. (father of two-time world champion Emerson Fittipaldi), the original circuit was 7.9 kilometers long and featured a series of fast, flowing corners that were unlike anything else in South America.
The circuit hosted its first Brazilian Grand Prix in 1972, and it quickly became one of the most popular events on the calendar.
The golden era: 1973-2000
Interlagos was a permanent fixture on the F1 calendar from 1973 onwards, and it quickly established itself as one of the most dramatic circuits in the sport. The anti-clockwise layout, the elevation changes, and the passionate Brazilian fans created an atmosphere that was unmatched anywhere else.
The circuit hosted some of the most iconic moments in F1 history. The 1991 race, where Ayrton Senna won his home Grand Prix in torrential rain, is widely considered one of the greatest drives in F1 history. The 2008 race, where Hamilton won the championship on the final corner of the final lap, remains the most dramatic season finale ever.
The modern era: 2004-present
The circuit was significantly modified in 2004, with the most significant changes being the addition of the "Senna S" chicane modifications and the improvement of runoff areas. The track length was reduced to 4.309 kilometers, but the fundamental character remained the same.
In recent years, the race has been known as the São Paulo Grand Prix, reflecting the circuit's location in Brazil's largest city.
Why Interlagos endures
Interlagos endures because it combines everything that makes F1 compelling: speed, bravery, unpredictable weather, and the most passionate fans in the sport. No other circuit has produced such dramatic championship deciders. No other circuit has such an electric atmosphere. And no other circuit has such a deep connection to the sport's greatest drivers.