2024 São Paulo Grand Prix: Everything You Need to Know Before Attending

Formula 1 heads back to fan favourite Interlagos for the fifth Sprint weekend of the season. Here’s everything you need to know about attending the São Paulo Grand Prix on November 1-3, 2024!

  • The 2024 São Paulo Grand Prix is set to take place on November 1-3
  • This post will be fully updated for 2024 6-8 weeks before the 2024 São Paulo Grand Prix weekend. Information below relates to the 2023 event and should be used for reference only
  • This post contains affiliate links. We may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links

Interlagos first appeared on the F1 schedule in 1973. Between 1978 and 1989, the Brazilian Grand Prix was held at Jacarepaguá in Rio de Janeiro, but since 1990 every running of the race has taken place at Interlagos in São Paulo. While 2020 marked the first time since 1972 that the event did not appear on the calendar – due to the global pandemic – the race returned in 2021 with the new official title of the São Paulo Grand Prix. 

The Sprint format has rejuvenated race weekends at Interlagos. Lewis Hamilton performed a fine comeback drive in both the Sprint and the Grand Prix in 2021, while Kevin Magnussen took a shock first pole position in 2022 before George Russell claimed his maiden victory. Formula 1 will be utilising its Sprint format once more at the 2023 São Paulo Grand Prix.

São Paulo’s population has grown by over six million since F1 returned to the Interlagos circuit in the 1990s. With that growing population has come a growing number of skyscrapers dominating the São Paulo skyline. There is plenty to see on your trip to the spectacular city. From fascinating architecture, to fabulous food and massive markets, São Paulo is rich in unique cultural experiences. F1 fans can also pay their respects to Ayrton Senna, whose grave is located 15km north of the circuit. We’ve rounded up the best places to visit within the city and further afield in Off-Track Activities.

Heading to Interlagos for the first time? All the essential travel information you need is in Travel Basics.

Expect passionate fans

The São Paulo Grand Prix is Brazil’s largest annual sporting event and there’s always a carnival atmosphere in the circuit’s grandstands. Most tickets for this year’s race are already sold out. Still looking for tickets for the race? More information can be found here.

181,000 fans packed into Interlagos over the 2021 São Paulo Grand Prix weekend and that figure rose to 236,000 last year, making it the 14th best-attended race of the 2022 season. Formula 1 continues to be popular in Brazil, despite the country having had no home drivers on the grid since 2018.

How Much Will a Trip to the 2023 São Paulo Grand Prix Cost?

The São Paulo Grand Prix ranks as the tenth-cheapest race weekend to attend on the 2023 Formula 1 calendar. Although there is no General Admission access at Interlagos, the cheapest 3-day grandstand seats rank within the top five cheapest of the season.

The race is not very affordable for local fans, costing over 50% of the average local monthly wage. With the Brazilian real (BRL) having fallen against other major currencies in recent years, the race has become more affordable for international visitors to attend.

We estimate that the average fan will spend around $1,300 USD on a trip to the 2023 São Paulo Grand Prix, including a 3-day grandstand ticket, 3-night hotel accommodation, plus daily spending money. Check out our Budget Planner for the lowdown on what you can expect to spend on a trip to the São Paulo Grand Prix!

Be prepared for all weather

Be prepared for all kinds of weather at the circuit. Rain has often been a factor at the Brazilian Grand Prix, most notably in 2003, 2008 and 2016. Last year, the wet conditions on Friday aided Kevin Magnussen to a surprising first pole position for the Haas team. Although there are strict policies on what is and isn’t allowed to be taken into the circuit, there are plenty of amenities available inside the gates. Thankfully, the food and drink offered at the track is pretty good and inexpensive.

On track at the 2023 São Paulo Grand Prix

Thanks to the return of the F1 Sprint, the 2023 São Paulo Grand Prix features a slightly unusual weekend schedule. The traditional qualifying hour will take place on Friday afternoon, while Saturday is dedicated to the Sprint event. The Sprint Shootout takes place on Saturday morning, followed by the Sprint later in the day. The Grand Prix itself begins at 14:00 local time on Sunday. 

Aside from Formula 1, there will be three support categories on offer over the weekend. Porsche racing will be in the spotlight, with both Porsche GT3 Cup Brazil and Porsche Carrera Cup Brazil taking to the track for two races each. The F4 Brazilian Championship will also be racing three times over the weekend. In addition, you can expect multiple air displays and historic car demonstrations.

You can find all the vital information about watching the race, including the all important on-track session times, on our updated Trackside page.

Staying safe in the city

Sadly, the São Paulo Grand Prix sometimes appears in the news for the wrong reasons. Last year’s race took place during a time of political unrest in the country. In recent years, numerous F1 personnel have fallen victim to armed robberies when leaving the Interlagos Circuit. São Paulo does have a relatively high crime rate, so remain vigilant during your trip. More advice on safety can be found here.

Got a question about attending the 2024 São Paulo Grand Prix? Leave a comment below!

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