Formula One confirms qualifying and race times for Sao Paulo Grand Prix

Formula One has announced that it has brought forward the start times of qualifying and the race of tomorrow’s Sao Paulo Grand Prix to cover for the chances of more weather disruptions.

After thunder and lightning hit the Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace ahead of the start of qualifying, Formula One has been forced to postpone the qualifying for the F1 Sao Paulo Grand Prix.

Although the F1 Sao Paulo Sprint took place in nice weather conditions, it started raining very heavily about 45 minutes before qualifying was due to begin. With thunder and lightning around too, qualifying was delayed by 15-minute intervals.

Although the storm passed the Sao Paulo circuit, the rain has remained which has forced the sport to postpone the qualifying session.

An FIA and Formula 1 statement said: "Following the conditions in São Paulo today the decision was taken not to proceed with Qualifying due to poor visibility, standing water on the track and fading light.

"Safety is always the paramount consideration in such circumstances and while as much time as possible was given to allow conditions to improve they sadly did not. We have huge appreciation for all the fans that stayed at the circuit in hope of seeing cars on track today.

"Therefore the decision has been taken, after consultation with the stewards, to schedule Qualifying for 07:30 local time on Sunday morning ahead of the Grand Prix at 12:30 local.

“This will ensure we maximise the chances or providing the fans with a day of racing action, given the ongoing weather forecast for tomorrow afternoon, and both the FIA and Formula 1 believe this time change is necessary and the right thing to do for all our passionate fans.