Australian GP 2025 Weather: Latest forecast for F1 race at Albert park
The 2025 Australian Grand Prix is just around the corner, and Formula 1 fans are eagerly anticipating the start of the new season. However, the latest weather forecasts suggest that the event may be impacted by rain, with an 80% chance of precipitation predicted for the race day on March 16.
The rain is expected to hold off during the free practice sessions on Friday, March 14, with only a 7% chance of rainfall. This will allow teams to focus on their set-up programs without any disruptions. However, the humidity is expected to be high, at nearly 70%, which could pose a physical challenge for the drivers as they struggle to cool off in the heat.
Saturday’s qualifying session may be impacted by the heat, with temperatures expected to peak at 37C/98.6F. This could lead to faster tyre degradation and cooling issues for the cars. Drivers will need to be at the top of their game to navigate the challenging conditions and secure a good starting position for the race.
However, pole position is not the only factor that determines success in the Australian Grand Prix. In recent years, drivers who have taken pole have failed to convert it into a win, including Lewis Hamilton in 2017, 2018, and 2019, and Max Verstappen in 2024.
The rain is expected to make an appearance on Sunday, March 16, with an 80% chance of precipitation predicted during the race. This could lead to a thrilling and unpredictable event, with drivers needing to adapt quickly to the changing conditions. The humidity is expected to range from 63-72%, ensuring that it will be a hot and wet affair for the 58-lap race.
The rain could also pose a challenge for the FIA and F1, particularly if the start of the race is delayed. The new start time of 15:00 presents an interesting problem, as the race must be finished within two hours, regardless of any delays. However, a delayed start due to weather conditions could edge the FIA towards another problem: sunlight. F1 cannot race in the dark, and a two-hour delay would leave only 90 minutes to complete the 58 laps before sunset. This raises the question of whether the race could be cancelled, although it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold.
In terms of the teams’ strategies, the rain could play a significant role in their decision-making. Do they take the extra downforce in the hope that it gives them better odds on race day? Or do they take a little less to qualify higher up on the grid and see what they can make of it? The tyre decisions will also be crucial, with teams needing to decide whether to start on intermediates, wets, or slicks.
The 2025 Australian Grand Prix promises to be an exciting and unpredictable event, with the rain adding an extra layer of complexity to the teams’ strategies. With McLaren, Red Bull, Ferrari, and Mercedes all tipped to be competitive, and Williams not far behind, the stage is set for a thrilling start to the new season.
