Key Highlights
- Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen face back-of-the-grid starts for Sunday’s Brazilian Grand Prix after exceeding their seasonal power unit allocations.
- Both drivers caution that overtaking at the Autódromo José Carlos Pace (Interlagos) will be significantly harder than in past years due to the 2026 technical regulations.
- The elimination of traditional DRS in favor of active wing modes and electrical overtake deployment has diminished straight-line speed differentials between evenly matched cars.
Grid Penalties Force Hamilton and Verstappen to the Rear
Formula 1 championship heavyweights Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen are bracing for an uphill battle at the Brazilian Grand Prix after taking strategic engine penalties. Both drivers were fitted with fresh power unit components ahead of the race weekend at Interlagos, exceeding their permitted allocations for the championship season. Consequently, Hamilton and Verstappen will line up deep in the field in 20th and 21st positions, respectively, sharing the back rows with only Cadillac driver Sergio Perez behind them in 22nd.
Historically, the circuit in São Paulo has served as the stage for iconic recovery drives. Interlagos’ sweeping final sector and uphill blast into the Senna ‘S’ traditionally offered ample slipstreaming opportunities. Both competitors have previously authored historic victories at the venue from unfavorable starting berths—Hamilton famously fought through from 10th on the grid to win in 2021, while Verstappen orchestrated a masterclass from 17th in 2024. However, changes introduced under the 2026 regulations have cast serious doubt on whether such heroic charges can be replicated.
Drivers Voice Frustrations Over New Overtake Mode
The revised technical framework removed the traditional Drag Reduction System (DRS) and introduced standardized active aerodynamics alongside an electrical overtake deployment system. Following a rain-soaked qualifying session, Verstappen detailed why these changes complicate passing maneuvers through the track’s primary overtaking zone.
It’s going to be a bit harder to overtake,
Verstappen told Sky Sports F1. The overtake mode doesn’t really do a lot around here. Everyone is draining their battery from the last corner to Turn 1. Everyone has their wings open.
The Red Bull Racing driver explained that the lack of technical disparity along the main straight neutralizes recovery attempts against competitive midfield machinery: So the effect is going to be less than normal. And that will make it a bit harder to overtake once you get to the cars that are similar lap time. The first few cars is not a problem, but then the other ones will be a bit harder.
Hamilton echoed those concerns, pointing out that previous iterations of Interlagos racing relied on asymmetric aerodynamic advantages that no longer exist under the new aerodynamic rules.
I think [it will be] harder. Because back then we had, obviously, a very long straight. And if you got close, you had the DRS and maybe a car wouldn’t have it,
Hamilton told the media. Because now everyone is just opening up their wings, I think overtaking will be very, very, very hard. I’m not sure you’re going to see the same sort of races that you’ve seen in the past. But maybe the wet conditions will change that.
Why This Matters
The Grand Prix at Interlagos serves as an essential litmus test for Formula 1’s 2026 technical package. One of the central aims of modern aerodynamic rule overhauls has been facilitating closer racing and organic passing without relying on artificial gaps. However, early track feedback demonstrates that when all competitors discharge their electrical energy and trim wing profiles simultaneously along identical sections of the circuit, the trailing car gains little advantage. With Hamilton and Verstappen starting alongside one another from the rear, their progress through the pack will reveal whether the new regulations enhance on-track combat or merely lock cars of comparable pace into an inescapable train, unless inclement weather intervenes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen starting at the back of the grid?
Both drivers incurred grid penalties after fitting new power unit components that exceeded their maximum allotted parts for the season, placing Hamilton in 20th and Verstappen in 21st.
Why is overtaking expected to be harder at Interlagos under the 2026 rules?
Traditional DRS has been replaced by active aerodynamics and an overtake mode. Because every competitor can deploy battery power and open their active wings along the main straight simultaneously, chasing cars no longer enjoy the significant aerodynamic speed delta they had in prior years.
Who is starting behind Hamilton and Verstappen in Brazil?
Cadillac’s Sergio Perez will start behind both world champions, occupying the final grid position in 22nd.
