A forecasted storm could potentially impede Saturday’s action at the Formula 1 Sao Paulo Grand Prix, with an Orange Alert in effect at Interlagos.
Sprint Qualifying at the recently resurfaced Interlagos track has served up a tantalising starting grid for the shorter-distance race on Saturday.
Championship leader Lando Norris starts on pole position with rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli alongside him, while Oscar Piastri will line up third.
That said, the racing gods have seemingly thrown in yet another spanner in the works with Brazil’s National Institute of Meteorology setting out an Orange Alert.
The storm, which is forecasted to reach its peak in Sao Paulo between 6 am and 9 am local time, could have an impact on track running.
The Sprint Race is scheduled to be run from 11 am local time onwards – which could be pushed back if the FIA deems it necessary.
This would, however, have a direct bearing on whether the teams will participate in qualifying on Saturday or not.
As per the Sporting Regulations, Qualifying must start at least three hours after the conclusion of the Sprint Race.
With sunset falling on the track at 6:30 pm local time, we could see a repeat of last year, which saw Qualifying pushed to Sunday morning.
As far as the Sprint Race is concerned, points will only be allocated if at least half the race distance (12 laps), with two or more laps run without a Safety Car, is completed.
As things stand, the FIA will take an informed decision once the weather hits Sao Paulo.
READ MORE – F1 2025 Brazil Grand Prix – Sprint Qualifying Results
Discussion about this post