São Paulo Grand Prix extended to 2035 in new five-year F1 deal
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Formula 1 on Saturday, 7 November 2025, confirmed a five-year extension for the São Paulo Grand Prix, securing the iconic Brazilian race on the calendar until at least 2035. The deal, backed by the office of São Paulo Mayor Ricardo Nunes, ensures that the Autodromo José Carlos Pace — better known as Interlagos — continues to host one of the sport's most celebrated events for the foreseeable future.
A Circuit Steeped in F1 History
The 4.309-kilometre Interlagos circuit, with its 15 corners and undulating layout, has been a fixture on the Formula 1 calendar for over 50 years. Named after Brazilian racer José Carlos Pace, who won the 1975 race there, the venue has hosted six Drivers' World Championship deciders, including title-clinching moments for current drivers Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton. Five Brazilian drivers have taken the chequered flag at their home circuit, with the late Ayrton Senna the most celebrated among them.
Brazil's F1 Fanbase Is Booming
The extension is underpinned by robust growth in Brazilian Formula 1 fandom. According to official figures, Brazil now counts 75.8 million F1 fans — a 6.5% year-on-year increase from 2024 to 2025. Notably, 44% of that fanbase is female and 41% are under the age of 35, signalling strong demographic momentum. The sport's official social media channels have attracted nearly 5.5 million Brazilian followers. Race attendance has also climbed consistently, reaching 303,627 in 2025, up from 291,717 in 2024.
Economic Impact and Broadcasting Reach
The 2025 São Paulo Grand Prix delivered an economic impact of $2.3 billion for the city — a 9.7% increase over the previous record set in 2024. Mayor Ricardo Nunes said the renewal 'boosts the economy, creates jobs, strengthens tourism and raises our city's international profile,' adding that sectors including hotels, restaurants, retail, and services all benefit directly. On the broadcasting front, Formula 1 agreed in 2025 with Brazilian network Globo through to 2028, giving pay subscribers on SporTV access to every session live and on-demand, alongside free-to-air coverage of 15 Grands Prix per season.
What F1 and São Paulo's Leaders Said
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, said: 'Brazil is an important part of Formula 1's history and our future, and I am delighted that this five-year extension will see us continue racing in São Paulo until 2035. The passion of our Brazilian fans is extraordinary, and every time we return to Interlagos, we feel their energy in the grandstands and in the city of São Paulo.' He also thanked Mayor Nunes and Alan Adler, President and CEO of the São Paulo Grand Prix, for their 'continued commitment and investment.'
Mayor Nunes added: 'São Paulo has a long-standing tradition and a historic relationship with Formula 1. Maintaining this partnership means ensuring predictability for investment, strengthening the calendar of major events and consolidating the city's position as a global benchmark for hosting international competitions.'
Brazilian Drivers and What Comes Next
Brazil has produced 33 Formula 1 drivers in total. At this weekend's race, two of its next generation — Gabriel Bortoleto and Rafael Câmara — are competing in front of their home crowd, adding further local resonance to the announcement. The next São Paulo Grand Prix is scheduled for 5–7 November 2027. With the city government committed to continued investment in the event's infrastructure and fan experience, Interlagos looks set to remain a cornerstone of the Formula 1 calendar well into the next decade.