Max Verstappen adds a touch of “samba” to Sao Paulo with a Brazil-inspired F1 helmet.
Max Verstappen will don the colours of Brazil at this weekend’s Sao Paulo Grand Prix, unveiling a unique helmet design for the event.
The Red Bull racer has swapped out his typical red, white, and blue for the vibrant green, yellow, and blue of the Brazilian flag, sharing the artwork on Instagram with the caption: “Bringing some samba to São Paulo."
This isn’t the first instance of him commemorating this race with a new helmet design. Last year, his Sao Paulo helmet featured gold and green highlights added to his signature lion artwork, with Verstappen describing the event at that time as “special.”
There are numerous reasons for this sentiment. His partner, Kelly Piquet, is the daughter of three-time world champion Nelson Piquet. Additionally, he considers Audi’s Brazilian driver Gabriel Bortoleto a close friend.
The circuit has also been the backdrop for some of the most unforgettable moments of his career.
In 2016, during only his second season in F1, he managed to secure third place in wet conditions after starting from 16th with 16 laps remaining, marking one of his early standout performances.
Since then, he has triumphed at Interlagos three times, in 2019, 2023, and 2024. The most recent of those wins is often hailed as one of the finest drives of his career. He began the race in 17th position amidst heavy rain, celebrated his first victory in months, and significantly closed the gap for his fourth world title.
Even last year, when he commenced from the pit lane, he ascended to third place, finishing just under half a second behind young Kimi Antonelli in second.
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing
This year’s appearance sees Verstappen in excellent form, having clinched victory in Mexico last weekend, marking his sixth win at that race. Although Antonelli has already secured the title, a win at a venue where Verstappen has frequently excelled would be another impressive addition to carry into the concluding rounds of the season.
He isn’t the only driver altering his racing suit design for this weekend. Antonelli will also sport a special helmet in honour of Ayrton Senna, while he and George Russell will wear purple suits for Mercedes throughout the event.
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