The FIA and Formula 1 have readjusted the times of qualifying and the Brazilian Grand Prix in Sao Paulo following still unpredictable weather forecast for Sunday.
The International Automobile Federation (FIA) and Formula 1 have announced new times for qualifying and the Brazilian Grand Prix in Sao Paulo after the qualifying session initially scheduled for this Saturday was canceled. This postponement was decided due to extreme weather conditions.
Qualifying should have started at 3:00 p.m. (local time) at the Interlagos circuit, but the situation quickly deteriorated. Torrential rain accompanied by lightning and thunder flooded the circuit, forming large puddles of water. Despite expectations and hopes for an improvement in conditions, the safety of the drivers and teams took precedence, and the session was postponed.
A modified program for Sunday
Following the weather events, the FIA and Formula 1 have decided to schedule the qualifying session on Sunday morning, at 7:30 a.m. local time (11:30 a.m. in France), to allow the Brazilian Grand Prix to start at 12:30 p.m. local time (4:30 p.m. ).
The governing bodies therefore decided to bring forward the start of the main race by 90 minutes, since the start of the Brazilian Grand Prix was initially scheduled for 2:00 p.m. local time (6:00 p.m. in France).
This change aims to guarantee maximum track time for fans, while taking into account the weather forecast which announces a gradual improvement during the day on Sunday in Sao Paulo.
Safety first
In an official statement, the FIA and F1 explained their decision: “Given the conditions in São Paulo today, it was decided not to continue with qualifying due to low visibility, standing water on the track and declining light.”
“Safety remains the top priority in such circumstances, and despite waiting for a potential weather respite, conditions unfortunately did not allow for a continuation.”
A thank you to the fans and circuit staff
The FIA and F1 also wanted to thank the fans in attendance who braved the rain in the hope of seeing the cars in action, as well as everyone involved, including drivers, teams, race marshals and staff of the circuit.
“We hope to put on an exciting show this Sunday and thank everyone for their patience and support” concluded the press release.
This change in schedule is therefore a necessary adjustment to ensure everyone's safety and offer fans a thrilling racing experience despite the vagaries of the weather.
