Max Verstappen suffers F1 title hammer blow in shock São Paulo Q1 exit

Max Verstappen suffered a shock Q1 exit in qualifying for the São Paulo Grand Prix, marking a significant hammer blow to his F1 drivers' title hopes. 

The Dutchman could only manage 16th quickest in the first part of qualifying in Interlagos, while Red Bull team-mate Yuki Tsunoda was also eliminated in 19th. 

It represented Verstappen's first Q1 exit since the 2021 Russian GP and leaves him with a mountain to climb if he is to outscore McLaren on Sunday. 

To add to Red Bull's woes, São Paulo qualifying marked its first double Q1 exit since the 2006 Japanese Grand Prix. 

Verstappen already suffered a blow in the Brazil Sprint race, where he finished in fourth. Lando Norris claimed victory, increasing his advantage over the reigning world champion to 40 points. 

After completing his final lap, Verstappen's frustration was evident over the radio, saying: "I have no grip, zero! Brilliant."

Following the sprint, changes were made to Verstappen's car, which he informed the team had improved the ride of his RB21; however, he also reported that his level of grip worsened.