Why Free Practice 2 could determine the Styrian GP grid

While a generous sun has been shining its rays above the Spielberg circuit for days and the mercury is close to 30°C in the region, it is difficult to imagine that the weather could come to play spoilsport this weekend . 

However, the weather forecast indicates that the situation could become stormy from Saturday morning. The expected heavy rains could make the Red Bull Ring impassable and prevent Free Practice 3 and the qualifying session from taking place F1. Without forgetting the various additional championships (F2, F3, Porsche Supercup). 

If the weather causes the cancellation of the various runs, qualifying could then be postponed to Sunday morning, as was the case in Japan last year with the passage of Typhoon Hagibis.

However, the situation may not improve until Sunday afternoon. In this case, the ranking of Free Practice 2 scheduled for this Friday would determine the starting order of the Styrian Grand Prix. The team bosses were officially warned of the different scenarios during their traditional pre-race briefing.

« This is a factor that we must monitor and take into account », confirmed Andreas Seidl at McLaren by videoconference Friday morning. 

Therefore, let's not be surprised if the teams adjust their running program and chase the clock this afternoon. 

Who knows, the supporters of the qualifying races, rejected after the refusal to Mercedes, will perhaps have the dose of uncertainty and spectacle that they demanded.