Interlagos (Autódromo José Carlos Pace)
Location:
São Paulo (Interlagos), Brazil
Local Weather & Time
Upcoming at Interlagos (Autódromo José Carlos Pace)
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6 Hours of São Paulo
World Endurance Championship
10 - 12 Jul
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Sao Paulo Grand Prix
Formula 1
6 - 8 Nov
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Track Info
Autódromo José Carlos Pace (Interlagos) - São Paulo, Brazil
Permanently built road course set around man-made lakes - anti clockwise - undulating lap with two long full-throttle sections
When was the track built?
Interlagos was conceived in the 1930s on land between two artificial lakes that supply São Paulo. Construction began late in the decade and racing started in 1940. The circuit evolved through the 1970s and 1980s, with major shortening and safety work in the early 1990s that created today’s 4.309 km configuration. It was renamed in 1985 to honor Brazilian driver José Carlos Pace, a 1975 Brazilian GP winner who passed away in 1977.
Continuous resurfacing and kerb updates have preserved its old-school feel while improving drainage. The paddock sits compactly inside the final sector, keeping fans close to the action.
When was its first race?
The venue’s first race events ran in 1940. Formula 1 visited for a non-championship round in 1972, then held the first World Championship Brazilian Grand Prix at Interlagos in 1973.
What's the circuit like?
- Flow and rhythm: The lap opens with the Senna S into Curva do Sol and the DRS-assisted Reta Oposta, then dives into a technical, downhill middle sector before the flat-out climb from Juncão to the flag.
- Anti clockwise load: Several long lefts tax the right-hand side tyres and the drivers’ necks. Mechanical grip is as important as aero efficiency.
- Two DRS zones: Main straight into Turn 1 and the Reta Oposta into Turn 4 create repeated passing chances and undercut opportunities.
- Weather wildcard: São Paulo’s microclimate can flip between sunbursts and showers within minutes. Safety Cars and strategic gambles are common.
- Benchmark pace: Official F1 race lap record 1:10.540. Dry poles often land in the low 1:07s on a rubbered-in track.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- Formula 1 (race lap): 1:10.540 - Valtteri Bottas, 2018 Brazilian GP - current 4.309 km layout.
- FIA WEC - 6 Hours of São Paulo: Hypercar and LMGT3 headline endurance action, with prototypes carving through the twisty middle sector.
- Stock Car Pro Series (Brazil): National touring cars produce bumper-to-bumper packs and photo finishes on the long start-finish climb.
- Porsche Cup Brasil: One-make GT sprint races showcase kerb-riding through the infield and slipstreaming past the pits.
- F2/F3 (support eras): Junior single-seaters have raced here in selected seasons, turning the Senna S into a divebomb hotspot.
Why go?
A coliseum of noise with grandstands close to the track, passionate crowds and constant action. The combination of elevation, tight infield and two long full-throttle sections generates overtakes and strategic swings, while São Paulo’s food and music scenes add a brilliant city break.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Senna S (T1-2): Starts, restarts and classic out-braking into T1 followed by traction battles down to Turn 4.
- Turn 4 Descida do Lago: End of the Reta Oposta DRS - prime passing with switchback potential through the next complex.
- Laranjinha to Bico de Pato: Technical sequence where balance and tyre management are on full display.
- Juncão and the climb: Watch exits that define top speed up the hill and set up last-lap slingshots to the chequered flag.
- Main grandstand: Pit stops, strategy drama, podium and panoramic views of the uphill run to Turn 1.
Not just F1: Brazilian and world series at Interlagos
Stock Car Pro Series: Brazil’s flagship touring cars deliver elbows-out racing and title deciders each season.
Porsche Cup Brasil: Deep Pro and Pro-Am fields provide GT entertainment with relentless midfield fights.
FIA WEC - 6 Hours of São Paulo: Multi-class endurance returns fans a full day of strategy, traffic management and diverse machinery.
Regional and national: Copa Truck, TCR South America and endurance/club events keep the calendar busy between international rounds.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Interlagos - Autódromo José Carlos Pace, São Paulo
Best options are the CPTM Line 9 - Esmeralda train to Autódromo station with a short walk, the special GP express trains from Pinheiros or Morumbi, SPTrans shuttle or circular buses to various gates, and taxis or rideshare away from the perimeter. There is no official spectator parking during the event.
Train - the easiest way
- Line 9 - Esmeralda to Autódromo: From central areas connect at Pinheiros to Line 9, then ride to Autódromo. The station is roughly a 7-12 minute walk to some entrances.
- GP express service: On GP weekend, timed express trains run Pinheiros - Morumbi - Autódromo to reduce journey time. Check the São Paulo GP mobility page for schedules.
- Network tip: Line 9 is operated by ViaMobilidade and integrates with the metro network - use your contactless or Bilhete Único and follow crowd control at Pinheiros and Autódromo.
Shuttles and city buses
- SPTrans circular buses: Event services circulate from Autódromo station to key entrance zones. Expect regular city fares and frequent departures on race days.
- Local bus stops around the venue: Additional lines run on the perimeter - pick up points are signposted near Rua Plínio Schmidt and Av. Jacinto Júlio.
Tip: If the platform is congested after the race, consider the circular bus from Autódromo station to a different gate or wait 20-30 minutes for queues to ease.
Driving and parking
- No spectator parking: The organizer and city advise against driving - access is restricted to accredited vehicles and streets are closed around the circuit.
- Charter coaches: Authorized charter buses have specific parking areas on designated streets during the event.
Walking from stations and drops
- Autódromo station → Sector G and nearby gates: roughly 500-700 m on signed routes. Stewards funnel fans to the correct side of the venue.
- From bus set-downs: Follow temporary pedestrian lanes and bridge crossings - allow extra time after the flag due to crowd management.
Taxis and rideshare
- Set pickup away from the perimeter: Streets near the gates are closed or gridlocked - arrange pickup at rail hubs such as Autódromo or Pinheiros after the race.
Airports and long-distance travel
- São Paulo Congonhas CGH → Interlagos: about 14 km by road in light traffic. Taxis and rideshare are plentiful.
- São Paulo Guarulhos GRU → Interlagos: around 47-50 km depending on route - plan extra time on race days.
Gate quick guide - what is nearest
- Sector G - opposite straight side: shortest on foot from Autódromo station.
- Other sectors and paddock side: use SPTrans circular buses from the station to the nearest posted gate if walking distance is long.
Always follow the gate printed on your e-ticket and the São Paulo GP mobility updates for express train times, bus stops and any last minute road closures.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Interlagos - Autódromo José Carlos Pace (São Paulo, Brazil)
Whether you are here for Formula 1, Stock Car Pro Series, Porsche Cup, endurance races or a track day, São Paulo surrounds Interlagos with parks, museums, neighbourhood food scenes and easy day trips - perfect for mornings, evenings and non race days.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- Parque Ibirapuera: São Paulo’s signature green space with lakes, bike paths and playgrounds. Museums inside the park make easy rainy day fallbacks.
- São Paulo Aquarium: Large themed aquarium with tunnel tanks and a strong Amazon section - great half day with kids.
- São Paulo Zoo and Zoo Safari: Classic city zoo plus a drive through safari area with close up views of native species.
- Museu do Futebol: Interactive football museum at Pacaembu celebrating Brazil’s game - engaging for all ages.
- Catavento Museum: Hands on science center in the historic Palace of Industries - perfect for curious kids and teens.
- Guarapiranga Reservoir: Marinas and casual waterfront restaurants close to the circuit for paddle or boat outings on quieter days.
Many attractions use timed entry on weekends and holidays - book ahead for race week Friday and Saturday.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- MASP - Museu de Arte de São Paulo: Iconic glass and concrete building on Avenida Paulista with a world class collection.
- Pinacoteca de São Paulo: Brazilian art in a beautiful 19th century building beside Jardim da Luz.
- Museu do Ipiranga: Newly restored history museum with grand galleries and gardens on Independence Hill.
- Theatro Municipal tours: Guided visits to the ornate opera house pair well with a coffee stop in the historic center.
- Beco do Batman - Vila Madalena: Open air street art galleries in a walkable neighbourhood of cafés and boutiques.
- Mercado Municipal: Covered market famous for mortadella sandwiches and pastel - ideal if showers roll in.
Eat and drink like a local
- Churrascarias: All you can eat rodízio style grills are a classic celebratory pick after qualifying or race day.
- Liberdade: Japanese and pan Asian district for ramen, sushi and street snacks - lively at weekends.
- Vila Madalena and Pinheiros: Bar streets, craft beer and modern Brazilian bistros for relaxed evenings.
- Itaim and Jardins: High end dining and rooftops for Sunday night dinners.
- Race week tip: Prime dinner slots book out across the city - reserve in advance for groups.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Paulista Aberta - Sundays: Avenida Paulista opens to people most Sundays with music, art and street food - great for a gentle walk or bike ride.
- Cantareira State Park - Pedra Grande: Forest hike to a panoramic city viewpoint - go early for cooler temperatures.
- Parque Villa-Lobos: Flat bike paths, lawns and courts on the west side - easy family option.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Santos and Guarujá - 1.5 to 2 hours. Coffee Museum in Santos plus Atlantic beaches nearby - best as a full day.
- Campos do Jordão - 2.5 to 3 hours. Mountain town vibes, viewpoints and short trails - cooler air and alpine style food.
- Paranapiacaba - 1.5 hours. Atmospheric railway village in the Serra do Mar with misty walks and heritage tours.
- Embu das Artes - 40 to 60 minutes. Weekend craft markets, galleries and cafés in a compact historic center.
- Ilhabela or Maresias - 3 to 3.5 hours. Island and north coast beaches with surf and hiking - ambitious but rewarding if you add an extra night.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Mountain and coastal routes are busier on sunny Saturdays and Sundays.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Late spring and early summer usually bring the biggest events and citywide buzz. Hotels and restaurants fill quickly from Thursday to Sunday.
- Weather - Warm days with strong sun. Showers often pop up late afternoon. Pack light layers, sunscreen and comfortable shoes for long city walks and paddock days.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site operations: Karting, track tours and public sessions may pause or use special slots during major events - check availability if you want to fit them around sessions.
- Road changes: Temporary closures and diversions operate near the Autódromo and around Guarapiranga Reservoir during the event window.
- Reservations: Book popular museums, market experiences and dinner tables in advance for Friday and Saturday evenings.
Opening hours, seasonal operations and event week plans can change - check official sites close to your visit.
Hotels & Accommodation
Location:
São Paulo (Interlagos), Brazil
Track Info
Autódromo José Carlos Pace (Interlagos) - São Paulo, Brazil
Permanently built road course set around man-made lakes - anti clockwise - undulating lap with two long full-throttle sections
When was the track built?
Interlagos was conceived in the 1930s on land between two artificial lakes that supply São Paulo. Construction began late in the decade and racing started in 1940. The circuit evolved through the 1970s and 1980s, with major shortening and safety work in the early 1990s that created today’s 4.309 km configuration. It was renamed in 1985 to honor Brazilian driver José Carlos Pace, a 1975 Brazilian GP winner who passed away in 1977.
Continuous resurfacing and kerb updates have preserved its old-school feel while improving drainage. The paddock sits compactly inside the final sector, keeping fans close to the action.
When was its first race?
The venue’s first race events ran in 1940. Formula 1 visited for a non-championship round in 1972, then held the first World Championship Brazilian Grand Prix at Interlagos in 1973.
What's the circuit like?
- Flow and rhythm: The lap opens with the Senna S into Curva do Sol and the DRS-assisted Reta Oposta, then dives into a technical, downhill middle sector before the flat-out climb from Juncão to the flag.
- Anti clockwise load: Several long lefts tax the right-hand side tyres and the drivers’ necks. Mechanical grip is as important as aero efficiency.
- Two DRS zones: Main straight into Turn 1 and the Reta Oposta into Turn 4 create repeated passing chances and undercut opportunities.
- Weather wildcard: São Paulo’s microclimate can flip between sunbursts and showers within minutes. Safety Cars and strategic gambles are common.
- Benchmark pace: Official F1 race lap record 1:10.540. Dry poles often land in the low 1:07s on a rubbered-in track.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- Formula 1 (race lap): 1:10.540 - Valtteri Bottas, 2018 Brazilian GP - current 4.309 km layout.
- FIA WEC - 6 Hours of São Paulo: Hypercar and LMGT3 headline endurance action, with prototypes carving through the twisty middle sector.
- Stock Car Pro Series (Brazil): National touring cars produce bumper-to-bumper packs and photo finishes on the long start-finish climb.
- Porsche Cup Brasil: One-make GT sprint races showcase kerb-riding through the infield and slipstreaming past the pits.
- F2/F3 (support eras): Junior single-seaters have raced here in selected seasons, turning the Senna S into a divebomb hotspot.
Why go?
A coliseum of noise with grandstands close to the track, passionate crowds and constant action. The combination of elevation, tight infield and two long full-throttle sections generates overtakes and strategic swings, while São Paulo’s food and music scenes add a brilliant city break.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Senna S (T1-2): Starts, restarts and classic out-braking into T1 followed by traction battles down to Turn 4.
- Turn 4 Descida do Lago: End of the Reta Oposta DRS - prime passing with switchback potential through the next complex.
- Laranjinha to Bico de Pato: Technical sequence where balance and tyre management are on full display.
- Juncão and the climb: Watch exits that define top speed up the hill and set up last-lap slingshots to the chequered flag.
- Main grandstand: Pit stops, strategy drama, podium and panoramic views of the uphill run to Turn 1.
Not just F1: Brazilian and world series at Interlagos
Stock Car Pro Series: Brazil’s flagship touring cars deliver elbows-out racing and title deciders each season.
Porsche Cup Brasil: Deep Pro and Pro-Am fields provide GT entertainment with relentless midfield fights.
FIA WEC - 6 Hours of São Paulo: Multi-class endurance returns fans a full day of strategy, traffic management and diverse machinery.
Regional and national: Copa Truck, TCR South America and endurance/club events keep the calendar busy between international rounds.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Interlagos - Autódromo José Carlos Pace, São Paulo
Best options are the CPTM Line 9 - Esmeralda train to Autódromo station with a short walk, the special GP express trains from Pinheiros or Morumbi, SPTrans shuttle or circular buses to various gates, and taxis or rideshare away from the perimeter. There is no official spectator parking during the event.
Train - the easiest way
- Line 9 - Esmeralda to Autódromo: From central areas connect at Pinheiros to Line 9, then ride to Autódromo. The station is roughly a 7-12 minute walk to some entrances.
- GP express service: On GP weekend, timed express trains run Pinheiros - Morumbi - Autódromo to reduce journey time. Check the São Paulo GP mobility page for schedules.
- Network tip: Line 9 is operated by ViaMobilidade and integrates with the metro network - use your contactless or Bilhete Único and follow crowd control at Pinheiros and Autódromo.
Shuttles and city buses
- SPTrans circular buses: Event services circulate from Autódromo station to key entrance zones. Expect regular city fares and frequent departures on race days.
- Local bus stops around the venue: Additional lines run on the perimeter - pick up points are signposted near Rua Plínio Schmidt and Av. Jacinto Júlio.
Tip: If the platform is congested after the race, consider the circular bus from Autódromo station to a different gate or wait 20-30 minutes for queues to ease.
Driving and parking
- No spectator parking: The organizer and city advise against driving - access is restricted to accredited vehicles and streets are closed around the circuit.
- Charter coaches: Authorized charter buses have specific parking areas on designated streets during the event.
Walking from stations and drops
- Autódromo station → Sector G and nearby gates: roughly 500-700 m on signed routes. Stewards funnel fans to the correct side of the venue.
- From bus set-downs: Follow temporary pedestrian lanes and bridge crossings - allow extra time after the flag due to crowd management.
Taxis and rideshare
- Set pickup away from the perimeter: Streets near the gates are closed or gridlocked - arrange pickup at rail hubs such as Autódromo or Pinheiros after the race.
Airports and long-distance travel
- São Paulo Congonhas CGH → Interlagos: about 14 km by road in light traffic. Taxis and rideshare are plentiful.
- São Paulo Guarulhos GRU → Interlagos: around 47-50 km depending on route - plan extra time on race days.
Gate quick guide - what is nearest
- Sector G - opposite straight side: shortest on foot from Autódromo station.
- Other sectors and paddock side: use SPTrans circular buses from the station to the nearest posted gate if walking distance is long.
Always follow the gate printed on your e-ticket and the São Paulo GP mobility updates for express train times, bus stops and any last minute road closures.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Interlagos - Autódromo José Carlos Pace (São Paulo, Brazil)
Whether you are here for Formula 1, Stock Car Pro Series, Porsche Cup, endurance races or a track day, São Paulo surrounds Interlagos with parks, museums, neighbourhood food scenes and easy day trips - perfect for mornings, evenings and non race days.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- Parque Ibirapuera: São Paulo’s signature green space with lakes, bike paths and playgrounds. Museums inside the park make easy rainy day fallbacks.
- São Paulo Aquarium: Large themed aquarium with tunnel tanks and a strong Amazon section - great half day with kids.
- São Paulo Zoo and Zoo Safari: Classic city zoo plus a drive through safari area with close up views of native species.
- Museu do Futebol: Interactive football museum at Pacaembu celebrating Brazil’s game - engaging for all ages.
- Catavento Museum: Hands on science center in the historic Palace of Industries - perfect for curious kids and teens.
- Guarapiranga Reservoir: Marinas and casual waterfront restaurants close to the circuit for paddle or boat outings on quieter days.
Many attractions use timed entry on weekends and holidays - book ahead for race week Friday and Saturday.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- MASP - Museu de Arte de São Paulo: Iconic glass and concrete building on Avenida Paulista with a world class collection.
- Pinacoteca de São Paulo: Brazilian art in a beautiful 19th century building beside Jardim da Luz.
- Museu do Ipiranga: Newly restored history museum with grand galleries and gardens on Independence Hill.
- Theatro Municipal tours: Guided visits to the ornate opera house pair well with a coffee stop in the historic center.
- Beco do Batman - Vila Madalena: Open air street art galleries in a walkable neighbourhood of cafés and boutiques.
- Mercado Municipal: Covered market famous for mortadella sandwiches and pastel - ideal if showers roll in.
Eat and drink like a local
- Churrascarias: All you can eat rodízio style grills are a classic celebratory pick after qualifying or race day.
- Liberdade: Japanese and pan Asian district for ramen, sushi and street snacks - lively at weekends.
- Vila Madalena and Pinheiros: Bar streets, craft beer and modern Brazilian bistros for relaxed evenings.
- Itaim and Jardins: High end dining and rooftops for Sunday night dinners.
- Race week tip: Prime dinner slots book out across the city - reserve in advance for groups.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Paulista Aberta - Sundays: Avenida Paulista opens to people most Sundays with music, art and street food - great for a gentle walk or bike ride.
- Cantareira State Park - Pedra Grande: Forest hike to a panoramic city viewpoint - go early for cooler temperatures.
- Parque Villa-Lobos: Flat bike paths, lawns and courts on the west side - easy family option.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Santos and Guarujá - 1.5 to 2 hours. Coffee Museum in Santos plus Atlantic beaches nearby - best as a full day.
- Campos do Jordão - 2.5 to 3 hours. Mountain town vibes, viewpoints and short trails - cooler air and alpine style food.
- Paranapiacaba - 1.5 hours. Atmospheric railway village in the Serra do Mar with misty walks and heritage tours.
- Embu das Artes - 40 to 60 minutes. Weekend craft markets, galleries and cafés in a compact historic center.
- Ilhabela or Maresias - 3 to 3.5 hours. Island and north coast beaches with surf and hiking - ambitious but rewarding if you add an extra night.
Times are approximate and can rise on headline weekends. Mountain and coastal routes are busier on sunny Saturdays and Sundays.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Late spring and early summer usually bring the biggest events and citywide buzz. Hotels and restaurants fill quickly from Thursday to Sunday.
- Weather - Warm days with strong sun. Showers often pop up late afternoon. Pack light layers, sunscreen and comfortable shoes for long city walks and paddock days.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site operations: Karting, track tours and public sessions may pause or use special slots during major events - check availability if you want to fit them around sessions.
- Road changes: Temporary closures and diversions operate near the Autódromo and around Guarapiranga Reservoir during the event window.
- Reservations: Book popular museums, market experiences and dinner tables in advance for Friday and Saturday evenings.
Opening hours, seasonal operations and event week plans can change - check official sites close to your visit.
