Formula 1 Brazilian Grand Prix 2013
Interlagos Circuit, officially named Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace, is regarded as one of the most challenging and exciting circuits on the Formula One calendar. The circuit is located in the outskirts of Sao Paulo, the largest city in Brazil. Unusually the Interlagos racing circuit runs anti-clockwise and is at high-altitude, so races are particularly hard on the drivers. The heat and humidity of Brazil also add to the driver's discomfort.
The combination of the tight infield and the long straight make the track layout very unique. The track has a bit of everything - low speed, high speed and there are several overtaking opportunities. Interlagos has some great corners such as the Curva do Laranjinha with lots of g-force and there are real overtaking opportunities into the Senna S at the start of the lap and under braking for turn four, Descida do Lago, at the end of the back straight.
The present design of the track dates back from 1990, when the original circuit due to safety reasons was shortened from 7.83 kilometers to only 4.31 kilometers. The first Brazilian Grand Prix on the reconfigured circuit was won by Frenchman Alain Prost, with Austria's Gerhard Berger in second place and Brazil's Ayrton Senna in third.
Compared to some circuits, Interlagos has a relatively small capacity of about 70.000 people. The fact that the track was built within a natural amphitheatre has resulted in spectators being offered an excellent view of more than half of the circuit, regardless of where they sit. Weather conditions can change rather dramatically at this time of year, so be advised to bring both raincoat and sun cream to Interlagos.