F1 Japanese GP weather forecast: Is a wet qualifying on the cards at Suzuka?

F1 Japanese GP weather forecast: Is a wet qualifying on the cards at Suzuka?. Rain looms over Suzuka: Will the 2026 Japanese GP see the first wet qualifying of the year?.

Charles Leclerc, Ferrari SF26, 2026 F1, wet

As Formula 1 heads to the iconic Suzuka Circuit for the third round of the 2026 season, fans and teams alike are keeping a close eye on the weather forecast. Could we see the first wet qualifying session of the season? With Ferrari aiming for their first victory of the year, weather conditions could play a crucial role in shaping the weekend.

Weather forecast for the Suzuka weekend

Friday

The Japanese Grand Prix weekend will follow the traditional F1 format. Teams will have two hours of free practice on Friday, and the forecast looks favorable for the opening day. No significant rain is expected, and temperatures are predicted to hover around 15°C as the cars take to the track for their first session. Drivers and teams will likely use this session to fine-tune setups and gather critical data in relatively dry conditions.

Saturday

Conditions could change on Saturday, however. Temperatures are expected to remain around 15°C as the second day of track activity begins, but there is a chance of scattered showers. This raises the possibility that the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix qualifying session could be the first wet qualifying of the season, adding an extra layer of unpredictability to the grid positions. Teams will need to carefully monitor track conditions and tyre choices to avoid surprises, especially in a venue as challenging as Suzuka.

Sunday

Race day promises milder conditions. The temperature is expected to be around 18°C when the cars take to the track for the main event, and there should be no significant precipitation during the race itself. While the track is expected to remain dry, teams will still need to keep an eye on potential micro-weather changes in the region. For Ferrari and other top contenders, a dry race could offer a more straightforward opportunity to challenge for victory, while any last-minute rain could introduce exciting strategic battles.

Overall, the Suzuka weekend promises a mix of predictability and potential surprises. Teams will have to prepare for dry running on Friday and possibly on Sunday, while staying alert for rain on Saturday that could shake up qualifying and influence the race weekend strategies. With the championship still in its early stages, every point and grid position will be critical, making weather forecasts a key factor in the preparation for this historic F1 circuit.