McLaren Warned to Be 'Nervous' of Brazil GP Rain Threat

Former F1 driver Jolyon Palmer has warned McLaren to be “nervous” if rain impacts the Brazilian Grand Prix weekend, especially with Max Verstappen's strong record in wet conditions.

Why it matters:

McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri are currently battling for the championship lead, with Norris holding a 36-point advantage over Max Verstappen. A strong performance in Brazil is crucial for McLaren to solidify their championship hopes. However, the unpredictability of wet weather, combined with Verstappen's prowess in such conditions, could turn the tables and bring the Dutchman back into strong contention.

The details:

• Rain Forecast: Rain is forecast for the Brazilian Grand Prix weekend, particularly on Saturday, which hosts the sprint race and Grand Prix qualifying. A slight chance of rain also exists for Sunday's main race.
• Verstappen's Wet Weather Form: Last year in Brazil, Verstappen impressively won from 17th on the grid in wet conditions, showcasing his exceptional skill when the track is damp.
• Palmer's Concern: Jolyon Palmer highlighted the extreme difficulty of driving in the wet at Brazil's Interlagos circuit, calling it “hideous.” He believes this presents a significant risk for McLaren, who possess the best car and a prime opportunity, but could easily "ruin it all" if it rains.
• Championship Stakes: The current championship standings see Norris leading, but Verstappen is only 36 points behind. Any misstep by McLaren in adverse conditions could allow Verstappen to close the gap significantly.

What's next:

Despite the potential for challenging weather, Palmer still backs Lando Norris to perform strongly.

• Norris's Prospects: Palmer predicted Norris would win both the sprint and the main race, asserting that this weekend could mark Norris's emergence as a true championship favorite.
• Podium Prediction: He also forecasted Verstappen to finish second and Piastri third, ensuring the championship battle remains tight heading into the Las Vegas Grand Prix. The focus will be on how McLaren manages the variable conditions and if they can capitalize on their strong form despite the potential for a tricky, wet race.