F1 Brazilian GP: 5 intriguing facts and stats for the iconic race

Since its debut in 1973, the Brazilian GP has been a cornerstone of F1, alternating between the legendary circuits of Interlagos and Jacarepagua. As the 2025 edition approaches, here are 5 fascinating facts and stats to set the stage for one of the sport’s most iconic races.

Brazil has also produced numerous icons of F1, solidifying the South American country's legacy in the sport. As we look forward to what promises to be yet another fascinating Brazilian GP, let’s dive into a few key facts and statistics.

5 facts and stats about the Brazilian GP

#1 Most successful driver – Alain Prost

Frenchman Alain Prost is the most successful driver at the Brazilian GP, having won the race on six occasions. The 4x F1 world champion won the 1982, 1984, 1985, 1987, 1988 and 1990 editions of the Grand Prix. Prost also took pole position in Brazil on two occasions. Notably, his greatest rival and Brazilian hero Ayrton Senna holds the record for the most poles with six.

#2 Most successful constructor – McLaren

The McLaren F1 team has won the Brazilian GP on 12 occasions throughout their long history. These wins have come with some legendary names behind the wheel, including Emerson Fittipaldi, Ayrton Senna, Alain Prost, and Mika Hakkinen.

McLaren's Mika Hakkinen after winning the 1998 Brazilian GP - Source: Getty

But the Papaya team has not won at Interlagos since 2012 and will be looking to get back to winning ways in Brazil this time around.

#3 Pole to win conversion rate in Brazil – 37.25%

Out of the 51 editions of the Brazilian GP up until 2024, only 19 of them have been won by the driver starting from pole. This means the poll-to-win conversion rate in Brazil stands at 37.25%. Interestingly, Mika Hakkinen, Felipe Massa, Nico Rosberg, and Lewis Hamilton are the only drivers who have won the race from pole on multiple occasions, all tied at 2.

#4 Percentage of races affected by rain in Brazil in the 21st century

The Brazilian GP is famous for the challenge that often comes at Interlagos with interchangeable conditions, especially in recent years. Approximately 30% of all races in Brazil in the 21st century have been affected by rain. The number is even higher when considering rain-affected qualifying sessions.

These conditions have given fans some legendary moments, including the Timo Glock incident in 2008 that made Lewis Hamilton a world champion. Max Verstappen also showcased his mastery in wet conditions in 2024, winning the race after having started from 17th and all but confirming a fourth world title for himself.

Rain is also forecast for the qualifying session this year, with a small chance of precipitation on Sunday as well.

#5 Most successful Brazilian driver – Ayrton Senna

The legendary Ayrton Senna is statistically the most successful F1 driver from Brazil. The man from Sao Paulo won three drivers' world titles during his career, claiming 41 wins, 65 pole positions, and 80 podiums.

Even though Senna was killed in a racing accident at the 1994 San Marino GP, the Brazilian has left an enormous legacy on the sport, as he continues to inspire F1 stars to this day.

Ayrton Senna at the 1989 Hungarian Grand Prix - Source: Getty

Notably, Nelson Piquet also won three drivers' titles during his time in F1. Emerson Fittipaldi is the only other Brazilian world champion, having won the title twice.

Edited by Tushhita Barua