Formula 1 has confirmed that the results of second practice could be used to determine the grid for Sunday’s Japanese Grand Prix if qualifying cannot take place.
All of Saturday’s track action has been scrapped due to the impending arrival of Typhoon Hagibis, which will bring heavy rain and strong winds to the region.
Qualifying has been scheduled for 10:00 local time on Sunday but it remains uncertain as to whether the storm front will have significantly cleared by then.
Conditions for the race, set for 14:10, are expected to be fine and dry.
“In view of the inclement weather forecast for the weekend, and noting that the FIA Formula One Sporting Regulations are silent on the subject, the Stewards have examined methods for establishing a grid for the 2019 Japanese Grand Prix, should weather conditions preclude holding the Qualifying Practice session,” read a statement issued on Friday lunchtime.
“Should this eventuality come to pass, the Stewards will exercise their authority under Article 11.9.3.b of the International Sporting Code and direct that the grid for the Japanese Grand Prix will be established based on the Second Practice Session Classification, with any penalties applied as necessary.”
