F1 brings forward Brazilian GP qualifying and race times

The FIA has confirmed that qualifying for Formula 1's Brazilian Grand Prix will now take place at 0730 local time on Sunday morning, with the start of the race brought forward to 1230 local time.

On Saturday afternoon, qualifying had to be continuously delayed and ultimately postponed due to heavy rainfall over Sao Paulo, with standing water rendering the Interlagos track undriveable despite the marshals' best efforts to clear the track surface.

The approaching sunset around 1820 local time was the final nail in the coffin, as the FIA decided to postpone qualifying at 1645, nearly two hours after the original start time.

Qualifying will now be held on Sunday morning at 0730 Sao Paulo time (1030 GMT). The race start has also changed, with it being brought forward from 1400 to 1230 (1530 GMT).

More rain is expected in Sao Paulo on Sunday, with the early session times giving F1 and the FIA the best chance of getting both qualifying and the race in the books.

The safety car on track in the wet

Photo by: Sam Bloxham / Motorsport Images

"The decision has been taken, after consultation with the stewards, to schedule Qualifying for 0730 local time on Sunday morning ahead of the Grand Prix at 1230 local," the FIA said.

"This will ensure we maximise the chances or providing the fans with a day of racing action and both the FIA and Formula 1 believe this time change is necessary and the right thing to do for all our passionate fans.

"We thank everyone for their patience today including the fans, drivers, teams, marshals, circuit staff and media and hope to give everyone an exciting event on Sunday."

Commenting on the postponement of qualifying on Saturday, the joint statement by F1 and the FIA said: "Following the conditions in Sao Paulo today the decision was taken not to proceed with Qualifying due to poor visibility, standing water on the track and fading light.

"Safety is always the paramount consideration in such circumstances and while as much time as possible was given to allow conditions to improve they sadly did not.

"We have huge appreciation for all the fans that stayed at the circuit in hope of seeing cars on track today."