F1 brings forward Brazilian GP qualifying and race times

The FIA has confirmed that qualifying for Formula 1’s Brazilian Grand Prix will now take place at 07:30 local time on Sunday morning, with the start of the race brought forward to 12:30 local time.

On Saturday afternoon qualifying had to be continuously delayed and ultimately postponed due to heavy rainfall over Sao Paulo, with standing water rendering the Interlagos track undriveable despite the marshals’ best efforts to clear the track surface.

The approaching sunset around 18:20 local time was the final nail in the coffin, as FIA decided to postpone qualifying at 16:45, nearly two hours after the original start time.

Qualifying will now be held on Sunday morning at 7:30 Sao Paulo time (10:30 GMT). The race start has also changed, with it being brought forward from 14:00 to 12:30 (15:30 GMT).

More rain is expected in Sao Paulo on Sunday, with the early session times giving F1 and the FIA the best chance of getting both qualifying and the race in the books.

The safety car on track in the wet

Photo by: Sam Bloxham / Motorsport Images

“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,” the FIA said.

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

“We thank everyone for their patience today including the fans, drivers, teams, marshals, circuit staff and media and hope to give everyone an exciting event on Sunday.”

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Commenting on the postponement of qualifying on Saturday, the joint statement by F1 and the FIA said: “Following the conditions in Sao 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.”