---
title: "F1 warns of possible flooding at Interlagos ahead of Sao Paulo Grand Prix"
canonical: "https://readmotorsport.com/2026/11/05/f1-warns-of-possible-flooding-at-interlagos-ahead-of-sao-paulo-grand-prix/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Gary Gowers"
section: "Brazil - Interlagos"
published: "2026-11-05T15:56:24Z"
modified: "2026-11-05T15:56:24Z"
---

# F1 warns of possible flooding at Interlagos ahead of Sao Paulo Grand Prix

**Formula 1 has warned that heavy rain could cause localised flooding and standing water at Interlagos this weekend, with Saturday’s qualifying session facing the greatest risk of disruption.**

The [official Sao Paulo Grand Prix weather forecast](https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/what-is-the-weather-forecast-for-the-2026-sao-paulo-grand-prix.6DTTG84ES6tbC6eISpqnR8) puts the chance of rain at 50% on Saturday, with significant rainfall possible from 14:00 local time, just an hour before qualifying begins.

The warning raises concerns over track conditions at the Autódromo José Carlos Pace, where sudden downpours have frequently affected racing. Although the forecast does not mean flooding is inevitable, standing water could create difficulties for drivers and potentially interrupt the session.

## Heavy rain could disrupt qualifying

Saturday’s forecast suggests temperatures could reach 27C, with wind gusts of up to 50km/h. Rain is considered most likely during the afternoon and could continue into the evening, increasing the possibility of qualifying taking place in difficult conditions.

Standing water would raise concerns over aquaplaning and visibility, particularly through the circuit’s faster sections. Race officials would assess conditions before deciding whether any delay or suspension was necessary. Friday’s two practice sessions are expected to take place in largely dry conditions, although isolated showers remain possible.

## Rain also threatens Sunday’s race

The unsettled weather could continue into Sunday’s 71-lap Grand Prix, with Formula 1 forecasting a 40% chance of heavy rain and thunderstorms. Temperatures are expected to fall considerably, with a maximum of 19C compared with Saturday’s anticipated 27C. The change could complicate tyre selection and race strategy, particularly if conditions vary during the afternoon.

Interlagos has a history of weather-related disruption. Qualifying for the 2024 Sao Paulo Grand Prix was postponed until Sunday because of heavy rain, before Max Verstappen won the race from 17th on the grid. Saturday’s qualifying begins at 18:00 GMT, with Sunday’s Grand Prix scheduled for 17:00 GMT. Both sessions could be affected if the forecast conditions materialise.

***For all the latest Formula 1 updates, motorsport news, reports and analysis, visit the** [**Read Motorsport news hub**](https://readmotorsport.com/news/)**.***