McLaren warned of Brazil GP element that should leave it 'nervous'

Former F1 driver Jolyon Palmer has stated McLaren should be “nervous” if the Brazilian Grand Prix weekend is impacted by rainfall.

Rain is forecast for the event, primarily on Saturday when the sprint race and grand prix qualifying take place.

While Sunday is more likely to be dry, a small threat of precipitation also exists for the grand prix.

Last year in Brazil, Verstappen won from 17th on the grid as he excelled in the wet conditions that were present on race day.

Fast forward 12 months, the Dutchman is currently seeking to close in on the McLaren duo in the drivers' championship, sitting 36 points down on leader Lando Norris.

Should the rain arrive in Brazil this weekend, Palmer believes it would create an uncomfortable situation for McLaren.

“Imagine if we get weather like last year, how nervous you'd be as a McLaren driver now,” he told the F1 Nation podcast.

“That’s the one thing that could bring Max right into play.

“It is so easy to crash in the wet of Brazil, of all the circuits on the calendar, Brazil in the wet is hideous to drive.

“You've got Max, who's got great form there, and you've got the McLarens with the best car, the best opportunity, but such an easy chance to ruin it all if it rains.

“It’s going to be a good one.”

However, Palmer has still backed Norris, who is on a strong run of form, to come out on top in the point-providing sessions this weekend.

“Sprint winner is Norris, I think Norris also wins the race,” Palmer predicted. 

“I think this is the weekend he starts to become a real championship favourite.

“Then Verstappen comes second, and let's go Piastri in third, and we're all still close heading towards Vegas.”