SÃO PAULO GP ANNOUNCES NEW QUALIFYING AND RACE START TIMES
São Paulo, November 2024 – The FIA, Formula 1 and the São Paulo GP organizers have confirmed new schedule times for both qualifying and the race start, after the qualifying session had to be postponed due to severe weather conditions.
Qualifying was originally set for 3:00 p.m. this Saturday at the Interlagos circuit, but the start of Q1 was delayed due to a torrential downpour accompanied by lightning and thunder, which resulted in large pools of water on the track. With the session unable to take place on Saturday, it has been confirmed that qualifying will be held at 7:30 a.m. on Sunday, with the race start brought forward to 12:30 p.m.
Below is the official statement from the FIA, Formula 1 and the São Paulo GP organizers:
“Due to the weather conditions in São Paulo today, the decision was made not to proceed with qualifying given the poor visibility, standing water on the track and low light levels. Safety is always the primary consideration in such situations, and every possible delay was allowed to give the conditions time to improve, which unfortunately did not happen.
We greatly appreciate all the fans who stayed at the circuit hoping to see the cars on track today. Following consultation with the stewards, the decision was made to schedule qualifying for 7:30 a.m. on Sunday and bring the race start forward to 12:30 p.m. This will maximize the chances of giving fans a great day of racing, considering the forecast for Sunday afternoon.
The FIA, FOM and São Paulo GP organizers believe this change is necessary and the best course of action for our passionate fans. We thank everyone for their patience, including fans, drivers, F1 teams, marshals, circuit staff and media representatives, and we look forward to delivering an exceptional event on Sunday.”
With the revised schedule, circuit gates will open to the public at 6:30 a.m.
About the São Paulo GP
The São Paulo F1 Grand Prix is the premier recurring event on Brazil’s sporting calendar. As one of the stages of the Formula 1 World Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championship, it takes place annually at the Interlagos Circuit in São Paulo. The most recent edition attracted 267,000 spectators over three days and injected more than R$1.64 billion into the local economy, while creating around 17,000 jobs. Broadcast live to more than 180 countries, it generates US$ 439 million in media returns for the city. In addition to offering world-class entertainment, the São Paulo GP provides its partners with a powerful platform for brand exposure and relationship building. In full alignment with Formula 1’s guidelines, the São Paulo GP actively promotes environmental sustainability, diversity, and social inclusion.
Media contacts:
São Paulo F1 Grand Prix
Castilho de Andrade / Marília Frias – [email protected]