Cyclone Threatens Sao Paulo Grand Prix Weekend

An extratropical cyclone is bearing down on the Sao Paulo Grand Prix weekend, prompting an “orange alert” from the FIA for Saturday's sessions. Forecasters predict up to 60mm of rain per hour and winds gusting to 100km/h, raising serious concerns for the sprint race and qualifying.

Why it matters:

The severe weather forecast threatens to disrupt a crucial part of the F1 weekend, potentially impacting championship standings and driver performances. Interlagos is known for its unpredictable weather, but the intensity of this cyclone could lead to significant delays, procedural changes, and even a grid set by championship order if qualifying is washed out under new 2025 rules.

The details:

• FIA Orange Alert: Saturday has been flagged with an "orange alert" due to the impending extratropical cyclone.
• Extreme Forecast: Up to 60mm of rain per hour and winds gusting to 100km/h are expected.
• Sprint Race Risk: The sprint race at 11 am local time has an 80% chance of rain, with potential delays of two to three hours. Points will only be awarded if at least two green-flag laps are completed and more than half the race distance is run.
• Qualifying Risk: Qualifying at 3 pm local time faces a 40% chance of showers. If qualifying is washed out under new 2025 regulations, the grid will be determined by championship standings, which could see Lando Norris on pole, followed by Oscar Piastri and Max Verstappen.
• Sunday Outlook: Sunday's main race has a lower 20% chance of rain, though overcast and damp conditions could still pose challenges.
• Broader Impact: Brazil's National Institute of Meteorology has warned of possible falling trees, flooding, and power outages in the region due to the cyclone.

What's next:

Teams and drivers are on high alert, preparing for a potentially chaotic weekend. The FIA will closely monitor conditions to ensure driver safety and fair competition. The unfolding weather situation will undoubtedly add another layer of drama to an already exciting championship battle at Interlagos, a circuit famed for its unpredictable races.