Verstappen to Wear Brazil-Inspired Helmet at Sao Paulo
Max Verstappen will race in green, yellow and blue colours at this weekend's Sao Paulo Grand Prix.
Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Motorsports
Max Verstappen will change his helmet colours to green, yellow and blue, replacing his usual red, white and blue, for the Sao Paulo Grand Prix this coming weekend. The change is temporary and applies only to the Interlagos race weekend.
Why it matters
The design is a visible nod to Verstappen's close ties with Brazil and to the strong support he has received at Interlagos. It also highlights the personal connections drivers build with host nations on the Formula One calendar.
At Interlagos in 2024, Verstappen started 17th on the grid and won, a result that nearly sealed his fourth world title and snapped a long win drought. The extraction does not state how many races remain for the 2026 season or the points gap at this stage.
The players
Max Verstappen
Dutch Formula One driver and four-time world champion who drives for Red Bull Racing.
Gabriel Bortoleto
Brazilian racing driver competing for Audi and a home favourite at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix.
The details
For the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, Verstappen's helmet will feature green, yellow and blue in place of red, white and blue. The design honours his partner Kelly Piquet, who is from Brazil, and his close friendship with Audi driver Gabriel Bortoleto, a home favourite.
Timeline
2016: Verstappen delivered a wet-weather drive at Interlagos that marked him as a future great.
2024: Verstappen started 17th and won at Interlagos.
This coming weekend: The new helmet is worn at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix.
Season Trajectory
Verstappen's 2024 Interlagos win followed his 2016 wet-weather drive there, extending a Brazilian record that helped define his rise to the title. The Sao Paulo race is positioned as a late-season stage in his pursuit of a fourth world championship.
Fans watching the Sao Paulo Grand Prix this weekend will see Verstappen in the new green, yellow and blue livery on track. The change is cosmetic and does not alter the championship standings or race-day format.
The takeaway
Personal connections drivers build with host nations can translate into visible tributes that resonate with local fans. Watch for similar race-weekend gestures as the season moves between continents.
Further reading
Explore more Motorsports coverage for context on drivers, circuits and championship battles.
