F1 has made a big announcement on the future of the Brazilian Grand Prix ahead of Sunday's race, confirming the sport will continue to race in Sao Paulo for the foreseeable future.

F1 first raced at Interlagos in 1972, with the first championship event held a year later, and the Sao Paulo track has been a mainstay on the calendar since the Brazilian Grand Prix returned there in 1990 after a short stint in Rio de Janeiro.

It is a track steeped in F1 history, with many championships decided there over the years and many famous victories, and was contracted to remain on the calendar until the end of the 2030 season heading into the weekend.

However, F1 has now confirmed that it will keep returning to race at Interlagos until at least 2035.

Domenicali: Historic Brazil important for F1

Speaking as part of F1's official announcement, CEO and President Stefano Domenicali hailed Brazil as historically significant for F1 and namedropped the two Brazilian drivers racing this weekend and set to be on the grid full-time moving forward.

“Brazil is an important part of Formula 1’s history and our future, and I am delighted that this five-year extension will see us continue racing in Sao Paulo until 2035," Domenicali said. “The passion of our Brazilian fans is extraordinary, and every time we return to Interlagos we feel their energy in the grandstands and in the city of Sao Paulo.

“Brazil has produced an incredible 33 Formula 1 drivers, including Gabriel Bortoleto and Rafael Camara, who are racing this weekend in front of their home crowd, which will add to the many previous unforgettable racing moments in Sao Paulo. The continued success and excitement surrounding the event shows why it holds such a special place on our calendar, and this agreement underlines our long-term commitment to Brazil.

“I would like to thank the Mayor of Sao Paulo, Nunes, and the President and CEO of Sao Paulo Grand Prix, Alan Adler, for their continued commitment and investment. Together, we will build on this success and make the experience even better for our fans in the years ahead.”

Sao Paulo mayor reacts to big F1 news

Elsewhere, Nunes, the mayor of Sao Paulo, hailed the renewal and opened up on the benefits that the sport brings to the region every season.

“The renewal of the Formula 1 contract for a further five years is a very significant achievement for Sao Paulo," he said. “We are ensuring the continuity of one of the world’s biggest sporting events, which boosts the economy, creates jobs, strengthens tourism and raises our city’s international profile.

“Formula 1 benefits a wide range of sectors, such as hotels, restaurants, retail and services, generating opportunities and income for the local population.

“Sao Paulo has a long-standing tradition and a historic relationship with Formula 1. Maintaining this partnership means ensuring predictability for investment, strengthening the calendar of major events and consolidating the city’s position as a global benchmark for hosting international competitions.”