Delayed Brazilian GP qualifying gets expected start time

The FIA has shared that it expects qualifying for the Sao Paulo Grand Prix to get underway at 17:00 local time.

That is 20:00 in the UK and 21:00 in mainland Europe.

Ahead of the scheduled 15:00 local time start, the FIA confirmed the start of qualifying at Interlagos had been delayed.

The next update was given at 15:00 local time, 18:00 in the UK and 19:00 in mainland Europe. at that point, the FIA stated the delay would be at least 45 minutes, with the next update at 15:30 local time.

At 15:45, the estimated start time was pushed back by 15 further minutes. At 16:00 local time the expected start time was stated as 16:30.

For a fourth consecutive 15-minute interval, the FIA confirmed qualifying has been pushed back, with 16:45 the earliest possible start time now.

At 16:30 local time, the expected start time was again moved back, to 17:00 local time.

With around 40 minutes to go before the start of the hour-long session, heavy rain reached the Brazilian venue. 

Weather radars of the circuit show large red areas, which signifies heavy rain and storm-like conditions.

If and when the session will eventually get underway remains to be seen. There is still a risk that F1 runs out of daylight to play with, as sunset is expected at 18:21 local time.

This article is being updated as and when new information is available.