Franco Colapinto’s huge accident during the Brazilian Grand Prix in Sodden

The Brazilian Grand Prix in Sao Paulo saw a huge accident for a novice driver Franco Colapintoas the Interlagos track proved dangerous in wet conditions.

The Colapinto incident occurred during the famous uphill run towards the finish line. The Argentinian driver driving for Williams lost control of his car and hit the wall hard, causing significant debris to scatter on the track. Fortunately, Colapinto escaped unscathed, although his Grove machines also did not fare so well, sustaining significant damage.

Track conditions played a leading role in the events that took place over a rainy weekend in Sao Paulo. Unfavorable weather led to qualifying being postponed until Sunday morning, amid heavy rain that intensified the usual challenges at Interlagos – a track already known for its demanding layout. These conditions led to numerous incidents, prompting marshals to sporadically wave yellow and red flags throughout the session, which continued throughout the race.

Colapinto’s teammate Alex Albon was unable to start the race following his own crash during qualifying. It was a particularly difficult weekend for the British team.

The drama unfolding at Interlagos also put championship leader Max Verstappen in the spotlight. Verstappen’s qualifying session was difficult; he passed out in Q2 and was given a five-place engine penalty, his race prospects were uncertain. However, the red flag that followed Colapinto’s crash deliberately gave a strategic advantage to Verstappen and drivers Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly, who had not yet pitted.

Karun Chandhok, providing insights for Sky Sports F1, described the aftermath:

“Look at the garbage all over the place. Damage to the radiator, cooling… no wonder there was a red flag.”

David Croft, also of Sky Sports F1, elaborated:

“This will be a big advantage for Esteban Ocon, Max Verstappen and Pierre Gasly, who did not pit in this race. Everyone can get new tires under the red flag. Nobody wants a red flag when a driver stalls, but it couldn’t have ended any better for Verstappen.”