F1 SprintSprintBrazil

SPRINT START: Norris holds his lead over Antonelli amid challenging conditions

McLaren’s Lando Norris controlled the opening lap of the Sprint in Sao Paulo to retain his lead.

Polesitter Lando Norris got the perfect launch on the opening lap of the Sprint around Interlagos, managing a damp track to charge away from Kimi Antonelli and Oscar Piastri.

While earlier rainfall wasn’t as dramatic as anticipated, the track surface was still slick in parts at the beginning of the Sprint, presenting a unique challenge for the drivers.

Norris executed a strong start while Antonelli had a slower reaction, putting him under pressure from the second McLaren of Piastri. The Mercedes was able to defend well despite weaving on the damp circuit, ultimately keeping the Australian in third position.

Further behind, there was contact between Liam Lawson and the Haas of Ollie Bearman, with the latter sent into a spin that forced him down the order.

Click go on the video player above to watch the start of the Sprint in Sao Paulo.