The 2025 Formula 1 season is set to begin with the Australian Grand Prix, and the latest weather forecast suggests it could be a race to remember.
The excitement for the new season began with Lewis Hamilton’s blockbuster move to Ferrari in early 2024. Since then, a flurry of driver transfers and off-track drama have set the stage for an unforgettable year in Formula 1.
With the season opener returning to Melbourne’s Albert Park Circuit, the projected weather conditions this weekend could shake up both the starting grid and the final race results. Each day is expected to present vastly different challenges.
Friday
According to The Weather Channel, Friday’s conditions will be the most stable of the weekend, with a high of 82°F and a low of 63°F. Winds will remain mild, ranging between 5 to 7 mph.
This should provide teams with ideal conditions to gather crucial data and fine-tune their setups. However, since the rest of the weekend will feature more extreme weather, teams may struggle to predict how their cars will perform under different conditions.
Saturday
Qualifying day is shaping up to be a real challenge for drivers. Temperatures are forecasted to soar to 99°F, with winds picking up to around 10 mph.
With such high temperatures, tire and engine overheating will be key concerns. Managing out-laps and keeping temperatures under control will be crucial for optimal one-lap performance in qualifying. Teams will need to carefully adjust their strategies to maximize their chances of securing strong grid positions.
Sunday
Race day will bring cooler temperatures, with a high of 76°F. However, the biggest factor could be the increasing likelihood of rain. The probability of rainfall has climbed from 65% to 80%, setting up a potentially unpredictable Grand Prix.
Strategy will play a major role, as rain is expected to arrive mid-race. The timing of pit stops could be the difference between victory and disappointment. Given last season’s performances in mixed conditions, we may be in for another strategic masterclass—perhaps from Max Verstappen or Alpine.