SAO PAULO — The roar of Formula One engines may soon be drowned out by thunder as Interlagos prepares for a potentially stormy Sao Paulo Grand Prix this weekend.
Weather forecasts have painted a picture of uncertainty, with rain and lightning predicted to sweep across the circuit during crucial practice and qualifying sessions. The last time the heavens opened over Interlagos, qualifying was pushed to Sunday morning, throwing strategies into disarray — and fans loved every minute of it.
The FIA’s latest updates indicate a 40 percent chance of rain on Friday and Saturday, with temperatures reaching up to 28°C. Saturday’s downpour could prove pivotal, affecting not only the sprint race but also the grid order for Sunday’s showdown.
Race day may offer some respite — the likelihood of rain drops to 20 percent — but a sudden dip to 18°C could make tyre management and heat balance a nightmare for teams.
Few circuits match Interlagos for unpredictability. Its tight corners, changing elevation, and fickle weather have created countless classics — from Senna’s glory days to last year’s breathtaking comeback by Max Verstappen, who stormed from 17th to win in the wet.
“I dropped ten points to Lando (Norris), and I know I can’t afford mistakes,” Verstappen admitted. “If it rains again, we’ll need to be perfect.”