Over the years, the Chinese Grand Prix has orchestrated some of the most intriguing Formula 1 races with a touch of unpredictability. Thanks to the massively wide circuit and the two enormous DRS zones, Shanghai has hardly ever ceased to keep its audiences on their toes. However, ahead of the Chinese GP this weekend, there is a sense of fear lurking among motorsport enthusiasts amidst the current racing trend, solely dominated by Max Verstappen.
The Dutchman has been ruthless so far this year and is quite obviously the favorite to win the upcoming race in Shanghai. But, could the weather induce a bit of chaos and deny Verstappen a straightforward battle for the race win? The answer is yes! Shanghai, well known for its erratic weather in April, could well deliver yet another sensational weekend of racing this year.
Several weather modules have suggested that Shanghai International Circuit might come under brief spells of rain across the weekend. So far, the predictions have indeed come to fruition. The entire Formula 1 paddock was welcomed with intermittent showers on Wednesday, and the trend could be sustained into the media day (Thursday) as well. Here’s what the rest of the weekend looks like:
Will rain make an appearance at the Chinese Grand Prix?
On Friday, rain is predicted around the afternoon and will only get heavier with time before letting off later in the night. Hence, even if rain doesn’t play a part during any of the sessions on Friday, it is highly likely that the sprint race will take place on a green track with hardly any grip on Saturday.
🚨| Intermittent rain predicted across the race weekend in Shanghai. 🌧️
Are we in for a thrilling Sprint race on Saturday? #F1 #Formula1 #ChineseGP pic.twitter.com/GDumXQCzme
— Motorsport Hour (@MotorsportHour) April 17, 2024
Furthermore, Saturday is likely to witness brief but heavy showers, making it all the more difficult for strategists. Therefore, a big day for the engineers with everything to play for. And of course, there’s the main qualifying session right after, which might witness an overcast sky with brief spells of rain.
Finally, Sunday is likely to be cloudy with mild showers in the afternoon. While the showers may not be heavy enough to declare a wet track, they will be more than capable of causing some drama throughout the race in the afternoon. Overall, an interesting race weekend on the cards, but who is ultimately going to win the big prize?
Sara Chavan