Everything you need to know about the Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace

As Formula 1 heads to Brazil for Round 20, F1.com provides a comprehensive guide to the historic Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace at Interlagos. Having hosted F1 for over 50 years since 1973, the circuit is renowned for its rich motorsport history, dramatic title showdowns, and iconic comeback drives. Measuring just 4.3km, Interlagos presents a unique challenge due to its anti-clockwise layout, extreme elevation changes, and notoriously unpredictable weather that can shift from sunshine to heavy rain in minutes. Former F1 driver Jolyon Palmer highlights the technical demands of the track, noting the tricky braking zone at Turn 1, the rhythm required in the flowing middle sector, and the crucial final corner that dictates exit speed onto the main straight. The weekend will also showcase the modern technical regulations, featuring two designated Straight Mode zones—from Turn 14 to Turn 1 and between Turns 3 and 4—to reduce drag on the straights. Additionally, the Overtake Mode comes into play with its detection point just after Turn 12 and activation following Turn 13, offering drivers a new way to utilize electrical energy for overtaking.