The Formula 1 Sao Paulo Grand Prix at the Interlagos circuit in Brazil has been brought forward to 12:30 local time amid a persistent threat of rain.
Saturday’s qualifying session was postponed after a deluge of rain interrupted proceedings.
Slated for a 15:00 local time start, Saturday’s session was postponed through 1700 local time and as conditions failed to improve, the session was abandoned.
“A decision on a start time for qualifying tomorrow morning will be taken as soon as possible,” the FIA said.
Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali added: “We cannot control the weather and it’s a pity, but the conditions are not safe to drive.”
The FIA and F1 acted swiftly to reschedule Sunday’s proceedings, in light of further rain forecast late in the afternoon.
F1 Brazil GP slated for 1230 local time start
“Following the conditions in São Paulo today the decision was taken not to proceed with Qualifying due to poor visibility, standing water on the track and fading light,” a statement from the governing body read.
“Safety is always the paramount consideration in such circumstances and while as much time as possible was given to allow conditions to improve they sadly did not.
“We have huge appreciation for all the fans that stayed at the circuit in hope of seeing cars on track today.
“Therefore the decision has been taken, after consultation with the stewards, to schedule Qualifying for 07:30 local time on Sunday morning ahead of the Grand Prix at 12:30 local.
“This will ensure we maximise the chances or providing the fans with a day of racing action and both the FIA and Formula 1 believe this time change is necessary and the right thing to do for all our passionate fans.
“We thank everyone for their patience today including the fans, drivers, teams, marshals, circuit staff and media and hope to give everyone an exciting event on Sunday.”
Sunday morning’s qualifying session will be the first time F1 has set its grid on race day in five years, with the last occurrence coming in the 2019 Japanese GP.
The GP itself was originally planned for 14:00 local time (17:00 GMT) and has been brought forward by 90 minutes.
READ MORE – F1 Brazil GP qualifying postponed due to adverse weather conditions
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