Thunderstorms threaten in ominous 2026 F1 Sao Paulo Grand Prix weather forecast

Formula 1 could face a wet and unpredictable weekend at the São Paulo Grand Prix, with thunderstorms and rain forecast across all three days of running at Interlagos.

The Brazilian circuit is renowned for its changeable conditions, and the latest forecast suggests the weather could play a significant role in both qualifying and Sunday's race.

Friday is expected to begin with rain, although conditions should improve ahead of the opening practice session.

Temperatures are forecast to reach around 24°C, with overcast skies gradually giving way to sunny intervals during the afternoon. Both practice sessions could take place in largely dry conditions.

Saturday looks considerably more unsettled, with temperatures climbing to approximately 29°C before the threat of thunderstorms increases during the afternoon.

Showers are forecast around the time qualifying gets underway at 3pm local time, with the chance of precipitation reaching approximately 60-70%. Heavy rain could create difficult conditions for drivers battling for pole position, particularly if thunderstorms develop over the circuit.

For Sunday's grand prix, which begins at 2pm local time, temperatures are expected to drop sharply to around 17°C.

Rain and drizzle are forecast throughout the morning and into the afternoon, although there remains some uncertainty over whether the heaviest precipitation will arrive during the race itself.

The chance of rain around the start is approximately 40-50%, potentially creating a challenging afternoon for teams as they consider tyre strategies.

With Interlagos having produced numerous dramatic wet-weather races over the years, the combination of cooler temperatures and unpredictable showers could make Sunday's 71-lap contest particularly intriguing.