Sao Paulo Grand Prix 2026: Third Practice Session Sets the Pace

As the 2026 Formula 1 season approaches, the third and final practice session for the Sao Paulo Grand Prix has already begun, giving teams a last chance to fine‑tune their cars on the new Interlagos layout. Per Formula 1.com, the session kicked off at 10:30 GMT on Saturday, 22 March, with the full grid on track for 45 minutes. The timing aligns with the 2026 race schedule, which will take place on Sunday, 23 March.

Teams have used the session to test tyre strategies and aerodynamic tweaks, with Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen setting the fastest lap at 1:19.432, followed closely by Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and McLaren’s Lando Norris also posted competitive times, indicating that the midfield is still fighting for the best setup. The session saw a few minor incidents, including a brief collision between AlphaTauri’s Pierre Gasly and Alpine’s Esteban Ocon, but no significant damage was reported.

For Indian fans, the session will be available live on FanCode, the official streaming platform for Formula 1 in India. The broadcast starts at 3:00 PM IST, matching the 10:30 GMT start time. Fans can watch the full 45‑minute session, along with commentary from seasoned analysts and real‑time telemetry data. If you’re new to the series, the live coverage includes a brief recap of the Interlagos circuit’s history and its significance in the F1 calendar.

With the race just a day away, teams will likely use the remaining practice time to lock down their race setups. The results from this final practice are often a good indicator of the grid order, so keep an eye on the standings as the teams push to the limit. The Sao Paulo GP promises to be a thrilling opener for the 2026 season, and the live coverage will give Indian viewers an inside look at the preparations that shape the race day drama.

Source: Formula 1.com