The 2026 São Paulo Grand Prix at Interlagos is expected to feature unsettled weather conditions, with rain highly probable for Saturday’s qualifying session. Forecasts indicate a significant chance of showers and thunderstorms throughout November 7.
Friday’s practice sessions on November 6 are currently predicted to be largely dry, with only a slight chance of light morning rain.
However, the outlook for Sunday’s race on November 8 is more mixed. While early morning showers are possible, conditions are expected to improve by race time.
The track may remain damp in certain areas even if the rain subsides before the Grand Prix.
Temperatures for the weekend are forecast to be between 22-25°C, accompanied by moderate humidity.
Light to moderate wind speeds are not anticipated to significantly impact car performance.
The probability of rain for Saturday’s qualifying is estimated at 70-80%, decreasing to 40-50% for Sunday’s race.
Qualifying is scheduled to begin at 15:00 local time on Saturday, November 7. The precise timing and intensity of any rainfall remain uncertain.
Interlagos is known as one of Formula 1’s most demanding circuits in wet conditions.
The 4.309km Autódromo José Carlos Pace features significant elevation changes and a combination of high-speed and technical sections.
These characteristics can lead to uneven grip levels and the rapid accumulation of standing water in specific areas.
Visibility becomes a critical issue due to heavy spray, particularly along the main straight and through the Senna S.
The circuit’s drainage system can be overwhelmed by heavy downpours, causing rapid changes in track conditions.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli arrives at Interlagos as the 2026 Drivers’ World Champion, having secured the title with a third-place finish in Mexico.
The Mercedes driver has achieved six victories and 12 podium finishes during the 2026 season.
Antonelli will wear a special helmet at the Brazilian Grand Prix, paying tribute to Ayrton Senna.
Mercedes is currently leading the Constructors’ Championship by 12 points over Ferrari, holding 520 points to Ferrari’s 508.
Red Bull Racing is in third place with 455 points.
A maximum of 44 points are available for a 1-2 finish at the São Paulo Grand Prix, plus an additional point for the fastest lap.
Rain could complicate Mercedes’ objective of securing the Constructors’ Championship by increasing the risk of incidents and strategic errors.
Max Verstappen leads Lewis Hamilton by five points in the battle for second place in the Drivers’ Championship.
Verstappen has 285 points, while Hamilton has 280 points.
Wet qualifying conditions place greater emphasis on tyre warm-up, driver confidence, and the precise timing of flying laps.
A driver completing a lap just before conditions deteriorate can gain a significant advantage.
Qualifying begins at 15:00 BRT on Saturday, November 7, which is 18:00 GMT.
Sunday’s Grand Prix starts at 14:00 BRT, equivalent to 17:00 GMT.
