Unsettled Sao Paulo GP Weekend Predicted

Early weather forecasts for the Sao Paulo Grand Prix suggest an unsettled weekend with mixed conditions, a common occurrence at Interlagos. The unpredictable nature of the circuit's microclimate often leads to dramatic races, as seen with Max Verstappen's wet-weather masterclass from P17 last season.Rain is always a possibility in Sao Paulo, with the weather often a mixed bag.

Why it matters:

Interlagos is renowned for its unpredictable weather, which frequently creates thrilling and unpredictable races. Teams must be prepared for rapidly changing conditions, and drivers who excel in wet weather often find opportunities to shine, making for exciting viewing.

The Details:

• Friday (FP1 & Sprint Qualifying): The FIA's official forecast predicts a cloudy but dry start to Friday's sole practice session. However, the afternoon could see unsettled weather with a 40% chance of rain impacting Sprint Qualifying. Maximum temperatures are expected to reach 28°C.
• Saturday (Sprint & Qualifying): Saturday is projected to be "very unsettled" with potential morning thunderstorms followed by heavy afternoon showers. There's an 80% chance of rain, which could significantly affect both the Sprint race and the main qualifying session.
• Sunday (Race Day): Race day currently appears to have the most settled forecast, with only a slight chance of a light shower during the Grand Prix. Air temperatures are expected to be cooler, around 19°C. Despite this, Interlagos's changeable weather means teams must remain vigilant.

The big picture:

The Sao Paulo Grand Prix has a history of dramatic races influenced by weather, from intense downpours to rapidly drying tracks. This unpredictability adds a unique challenge for teams and drivers, often shaking up the established pecking order and providing memorable moments.

What's next:

Teams will be closely monitoring updated forecasts as the race weekend approaches to finalize their strategies. Given the high probability of rain on Friday and Saturday, effective adaptation to changing conditions will be crucial for success, potentially setting the stage for another thrilling and unpredictable Brazilian Grand Prix.