Brazilian GP Faces Potential Cyclone Disruption on Saturday

Formula 1 is closely monitoring the risk of significant weather disruption at the Brazilian Grand Prix this Saturday, as an extratropical cyclone is forecast to impact the Sao Paulo region overnight.

Why it matters:

The potential cyclone poses a major challenge for F1 and the FIA, with heavy rain and strong winds threatening to disrupt both the sprint race and grand prix qualifying on Saturday. The clear regulations regarding delays, point allocation for shortened sprints, and grid determination in case of canceled qualifying sessions will be critical in navigating the weekend's schedule.

The details:

• Brazil's National Institute of Meteorology has warned of an extratropical cyclone forming Friday evening, advancing towards the southeast.
• The Sao Paulo area, including the Interlagos track, could experience 30-60mm of rain per hour and intense winds up to 100km/h.
• Risks include power outages, falling trees, and widespread flooding.
• Current forecasts suggest the worst weather will hit Interlagos Saturday morning before easing.
• Sprint Race Options: If conditions are treacherous, the sprint start can be delayed, but there's a limited window. Sporting regulations require a minimum three-hour gap between the sprint's end and grand prix qualifying.
  • To complete qualifying before 5 PM (sunset around 6:30 PM), the sprint must finish by 2 PM, giving the FIA a two to three-hour delay window.
  • Beyond this, the sprint might be abandoned, or qualifying moved to Sunday.
• Sprint Points Allocation: If the sprint is shortened:
  • No points are awarded unless the leader completes at least two laps without a safety car/VSC intervention.
  • If the leader completes less than 50% of the scheduled distance, no points are awarded.
  • Full points are awarded if more than half the distance is completed and at least two laps are free of safety car interference.
• Grand Prix Grid Determination: Last year, qualifying was moved to Sunday morning due to rain. This remains an option.
  • However, new rules state that if qualifying cannot take place at all, the starting grid will be decided by championship positions.
  • This scenario would see Lando Norris on pole, followed by Oscar Piastri and Max Verstappen, based on current championship standings.

What's next:

F1 and the FIA will continue to monitor weather forecasts closely. The priority will be ensuring driver safety while attempting to complete both scheduled sessions. Fans should be prepared for potential schedule changes as event organizers navigate the challenging weather conditions.