Weather Forecast for the Japanese Grand Prix

Image: Getty Images

Formula 1 is back already, racing in back-to-back weekends as the circus moves from Singapore to Japan – with Red Bull looking to bounce back from a horrible weekend. Here’s how the weather looks: 

Friday 

The likelihood of wet weather during the Friday sessions has decreased from the earlier 70 percent prediction earlier in the week. Current forecasts suggest that there is now a 40 percent chance of rain affecting the FP1 and FP2 sessions. Nevertheless, overcast skies will prevail as the teams take to the track. 

Saturday 

Teams can rejoice as Saturday's weather is expected to remain dry throughout the day, with minimal chances of rain. These conditions could provide the ideal ambient setting for the weekend's races, with temperatures possibly reaching up to 30 degrees Celsius. The track should be in impeccable shape for FP3 and Saturday's qualifying session. 

Sunday 

As for race day, while clouds are expected to make a return, plenty of sunshine remains in the forecast. Rainfall is also expected to be minimal, with just a 10 percent chance of precipitation in Suzuka on Sunday. Consequently, teams hoping for chaotic wet weather running to gain an advantage will be disappointed, and instead, they'll need to rely on the more traditional methods of having a fast car and two skilled drivers who drive fast. 

Image: Motorsport Images

The Suzuka Circuit has seen its fair share of weather-related challenges over the years. Rain, in particular, has had a significant impact on several races. Here are a few notable examples: 

2007 Japanese Grand Prix 

The 2007 Japanese Grand Prix is perhaps one of the most famous rain-affected races in Formula 1 history. Heavy rain from Typhoon Krosa led to the postponement of the race from Sunday to Monday. The challenging conditions caused several accidents, and Lewis Hamilton, who was leading the championship at the time, slid off the track and into the gravel, significantly affecting the championship standings. Kimi Räikkönen went on to win the race and later the championship. 

2010 Japanese Grand Prix 

Rain played a role in the 2010 Japanese Grand Prix as well. The race started behind the safety car due to wet conditions. Throughout the race, rain continued to fall intermittently, leading to a difficult tire strategy. Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel managed to secure victory despite the challenging conditions. 

2014 Japanese Grand Prix 

Typhoon Phanfone affected the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix. Qualifying was postponed to Sunday morning due to the storm's arrival. The race itself took place in damp conditions, with many incidents and safety car periods. Lewis Hamilton won the race, further solidifying his championship campaign. 

2019 Japanese Grand Prix 

Typhoon Hagibis hit Japan during the weekend of the 2019 Japanese Grand Prix. Saturday's qualifying session was canceled for the first time in Formula 1 history due to the impending typhoon. Qualifying was held on Sunday morning, setting up a hectic race day schedule. The race itself was held in challenging conditions, with rain affecting visibility and tire grip. Valtteri Bottas secured the win for Mercedes. 

These examples illustrate how rain and weather conditions can have a significant impact on the Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix, affecting race scheduling, strategies, and even championship outcomes. Suzuka's challenging layout and unpredictable weather make it a favorite among fans and drivers but also a circuit where weather can play a decisive role.