The World Endurance Championship returns to Sao Paulo to compete in the Six Hours of Sao Paulo at the Autódromo José Carlos Pace, known as Interlagos. This race marks the return of the WEC to Brazil after a decade, the last race being in 2014. The 2024 season has been very competitive, and this race is crucial for defining positions in the championship.
2024 Season Context
The 2024 WEC season has been intense, with several key races and results that have changed the dynamics of the championship. It started with the Qatar 1812 Km, where Porsche Penske Motorsport achieved victory. The 6 Hours of Imola saw Toyota Gazoo Racing take first place. At the 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps, Ferrari won under changing weather conditions.
The most relevant event so far has been the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Ferrari AF Corse won with Antonio Fuoco, Miguel Molina, and Nicklas Nielsen, beating Toyota with Kamui Kobayashi, José María López, and Nyck de Vries. This result has left the championship open, with much at stake in the upcoming races.
Interlagos Circuit
Interlagos is a challenging 4.309 km circuit with 15 turns that combines fast and technical sections. The altitude of Sao Paulo and its variable weather add complexity, requiring precise management of tires and fuel. This circuit has been the scene of many memorable races and always offers an interesting spectacle.
Toyota Gazoo Racing arrives in Sao Paulo intending to consolidate its leadership after its performance at Le Mans. Porsche Penske Motorsport, with its victory in Qatar, will seek to maintain its performance at Interlagos. Ferrari AF Corse, after its recent victory at Le Mans, has proven to be a strong and adaptable contender.
In the LMGT3 category, the competition will be intense, with teams like Porsche, Ferrari, and Corvette in the fight.
Tire management will be essential due to the high temperatures and abrasive asphalt of Interlagos. Teams will need to carefully plan their pit stops to maximize fuel efficiency and maintain a competitive pace. The changing weather conditions in Sao Paulo can significantly influence race strategy, requiring quick adaptations and timely strategic decisions.
The competition in the Six Hours of Sao Paulo promises to be intense; every point gained will be vital in the fight for the championship, especially after the results at Le Mans. Fans can expect a race full of action as teams battle for supremacy on this historic circuit.
Event Schedule
The activities for the Six Hours of Sao Paulo will take place according to the following schedule (local time):
- Free Practice 1: July 12, 10:45 - 12:15
- Free Practice 2: July 12, 15:15 - 16:45
- Free Practice 3: July 13, 10:30 - 11:30
- LMGT3 Qualifying: July 13, 14:30 - 14:50
- Hypercar Qualifying: July 13, 15:10 - 15:30
- Race: July 14, 11:30 - 17:30
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