FIA considers Australian GP start-time change

The FIA is considering its options around the start time of the season-opening Australian Grand Prix due to the ongoing threat of a thunderstorm on race day.

Throughout the week, the forecast for Melbourne on Sunday has remained steadfast that heavy rain will fall. This could severely disrupt the day's race programme, notably the grand prix itself, which is due to start at 3 p.m. local time.

At this stage, whilst it is not anticipated the rain will be heavy enough to delay the race start, the FIA is naturally keeping a close eye on proceedings.

Motorsport's world governing body is intent on ensuring the entire race is run. It is, therefore, not ruling out a scenario where the event could start at an alternative time, so it has contingencies in place.

The FIA is mindful that should the start time move to later in the day, it cannot wait too long due to the sunset time over Melbourne.

The drivers were briefed on the possibilities during its post-Friday practice briefing.

An additional change that was also discussed during the drivers' briefing concerned safety car protocol.

There is concern amongst the drivers that the safety car does not drive at sufficient speed in prolonged wet conditions, resulting in the tyres becoming cold and losing grip.

A possible plan will see the drivers initially drive behind the safety car, should it be required, before race control switches to a virtual safety car scenario after a few laps.

This would allow the drivers to ensure sufficient temperature remains in the tyres, reducing the threat of incidents.

Update

It's raining in Melbourne on the Sunday morning, with more rain expected in the next hours.