Verstappen switches to Brazil-inspired helmet for São Paulo GP

Max Verstappen will run a Brazil-inspired helmet at this weekend’s São Paulo Grand Prix, with the colours of the Brazilian flag replacing the red, white and blue usually associated with his design.

The green, yellow and blue scheme marks Verstappen’s personal ties to the country, as well as a circuit that has featured some of the defining performances of his career. The Dutchman’s history at Interlagos includes a standout wet-weather drive in 2016 and a remarkable recovery in 2024.

Brazil’s colours reflect Verstappen’s personal connections

Verstappen’s links to Brazil extend beyond racing. His partner, Kelly Piquet, is Brazilian, and he is also close friends with Gabriel Bortoleto, the Audi driver and home favourite.

The helmet’s colours offer a visible tribute ahead of the São Paulo weekend. Red, white and blue will give way to green, yellow and blue, bringing a Brazilian flag palette to Verstappen’s appearance for the event.

For fans making plans to follow the weekend, F1LivePulse has guides on how to watch the 2026 São Paulo Grand Prix in the US and watching the event on Apple TV.

Interlagos has delivered two defining Verstappen drives

The circuit has provided a backdrop to performances that helped shape Verstappen’s reputation. His wet-weather drive in 2016 marked him out as a future great, while his 2024 outing brought another landmark result.

Starting 17th in difficult conditions in 2024, Verstappen charged through the field to end a long spell without a win. That victory also all but secured his fourth world title, underlining the significance of São Paulo in his career.

The new colours therefore connect a personal tribute with a venue tied to some of Verstappen’s most memorable moments. His Brazilian relationships, Bortoleto’s home support and the memories of Interlagos all give the helmet a clear connection to the weekend, without changing the focus on the track record behind it.

Verstappen’s 2024 recovery remains the most recent of the two major São Paulo performances highlighted by the tribute. This weekend, the Brazilian flag colours will provide a fresh visual marker as he returns to a circuit that has played such a prominent role in his story.