Cyclone Threatens to Disrupt Brazilian F1 Grand Prix
Formula 1 faces the threat of severe weather disruption during the upcoming Brazilian Grand Prix. Authorities are forecasting that an extratropical cyclone will impact the Sao Paulo region, raising concerns for the scheduled events on Saturday.
Cyclone Forecast and Expected Conditions
The Brazilian National Institute of Meteorology has issued warnings about a cyclone forming in southern Brazil on Friday evening. This system is predicted to advance toward southeastern regions, including Sao Paulo.
Heavy rainfall is anticipated, with estimates ranging from 30mm to 60mm per hour. Wind speeds could reach as high as 100 km/h. Such conditions could lead to power outages, fallen trees, and potential flooding.
Impact on Event Schedule
The most intense weather is expected to affect the Interlagos race track on Saturday morning. This may cause significant disruptions for the Formula 1 schedule, particularly for both the sprint race and main qualifying session.
F1 regulations outline the protocols for adapting to bad weather. If poor conditions arise, the start of the sprint may be postponed. However, there is a deadline for completing it so that the subsequent qualifying can commence.
Timing Regulations
- The sprint must be finished at least three hours before qualifying for the main race.
- Qualifying must be concluded by 5 PM to allow enough daylight for a safe race.
Given that sunset occurs around 6:30 PM, the sprint race must be completed before 2 PM to adhere to these regulations.
Points System for the Sprint
If the sprint race is interrupted, either by weather or incidents, the awarding of points will depend on specific criteria. According to F1 rules:
- No points are awarded unless the leader completes two laps without safety car interference.
- If less than 50% of the sprint distance is covered, no points will be given.
- Full points are awarded if more than half the distance is completed with at least two laps run freely.
Qualifying and Grid Positioning
Last year, F1 rescheduled qualifying to Sunday morning when Saturday was unmanageable. A similar option may arise if conditions do not allow for qualifying on Saturday.
If the session is canceled, a new rule will designate the grid based on drivers’ championship standings. This means that if qualifying does not occur, Lando Norris would take pole position for the Brazilian GP, followed by Oscar Piastri and Max Verstappen.
