Interlagos has been run by the state for years – which has helped it secure its spot on the Formula 1 schedule – but new mayor Joao Doria Jr. says that moves will be made to put the circuit in to private hands.

Speaking to Globo TV, Doria Jr. indicated that, when he takes up his position next year, he will move to change the ownership of Interlagos.

“We will maintain the Interlagos Park, which will still be open to general public,” he said. “We'll do some improvements on safety and access

“But we'll privatise the circuit and kart circuit. The amount previously committed to the circuit will be relocated in areas such as health services and education.

“We want to maintain Formula 1 and other activities there, and also bring other events. But a private company will lead the management and investments, not the state."

It is not clear if the changes will have an impact on the future of the Brazilian GP, with the event already facing a fight to secure its slot after only being granted provisional status in a draft calendar published last week.

Additional reporting by Gabriel Carvalho