F1 Brazil GP: Rain Forecast 'Slight to Moderate' for Sunday's Race

Despite dry conditions for Saturday's Sprint in Brazil, a "slight to moderate" chance of rain looms over Sunday's Grand Prix at Interlagos. Forecasts indicate a 40% chance of precipitation at the start, dropping to 20% later in the race, potentially adding another layer of complexity to an already unpredictable event.

Why it matters:

Interlagos is notorious for its dramatic, rain-affected races, and even a slight chance of showers can turn strategies upside down. With championship contender Max Verstappen starting P16, any weather disruption could either aid his recovery drive or create further chaos, making the race a nail-biting spectacle for fans and a high-stakes gamble for teams.

The Details:

• Rain Probability: The FIA's weather system indicates a 40% chance of rain at 14:00 local time (race start), decreasing to 20% in the second hour of the Grand Prix.
• Cool and Cloudy Conditions: Temperatures are expected to be between 18-19°C, with asphalt temperatures ranging from 25-31°C.
• Wind Gusts: Drivers could face challenging conditions with wind gusts reaching speeds of 30-40 kph.
• Sprint Race Aftermath: Saturday's Sprint saw several drivers, including Oscar Piastri, Franco Colapinto, and Nico Hulkenberg, caught out by lingering wet patches despite slick tire choices.

The big picture:

Lando Norris starts from pole position, a strong position for McLaren. However, Max Verstappen's unprecedented Q1 exit on merit, placing him P16, sets the stage for a challenging race. Historically, Interlagos has provided opportunities for incredible comebacks, especially with variable weather conditions. The combination of a strong front-runner, a championship contender fighting through the field, and potential rain could lead to a memorable Grand Prix.

What's next:

Teams will be closely monitoring radar updates and making critical last-minute strategy calls regarding tire compounds and setup adjustments. The early stages of the race will be crucial for Verstappen to make up ground, while Norris will aim to consolidate his lead. Any rain will undoubtedly shuffle the deck, potentially leading to safety cars, pit stop gambles, and unexpected podium contenders. All eyes will be on the skies and the track as the F1 Brazil GP unfolds.