Severe weather conditions are threatening to disrupt this afternoon's British Grand Prix at Silverstone, with thunderstorms and heavy rain forecast for the 3pm race start.
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms until 7pm, cautioning the public about hazardous driving conditions.
Rain has been pouring at the circuit since this morning, leaving fans and staff thoroughly soaked.
The warning raises concerns about the safety of drivers racing at speeds exceeding 200mph in potentially treacherous conditions.
Severe weather conditions are threatening to disrupt this afternoon's British Grand Prix at Silverstone, with thunderstorms and heavy rain forecast for the 3pm race start
PA
Despite the current downpour, forecasters suggest conditions may improve by race time, offering hope that the main event could proceed under drier skies.
Max Verstappen secured pole position for today's race, with McLaren's Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris qualifying second and third respectively.
The Red Bull driver will be looking to gain ground on the McLaren pair in the championship standings.
Mercedes star Kimi Antonelli takes cover from the rain at the British Grand Prix
PA
George Russell claimed fourth place for Mercedes, whilst Lewis Hamilton qualified fifth. The seven-time world champion will be aiming to secure what would be a record-extending tenth victory at his home circuit.
The qualifying session set up an intriguing battle between Red Bull and McLaren, with Verstappen narrowly edging out the impressive Piastri.
Norris's third-place start keeps him in contention for a strong result at his home race.
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Charles Leclerc's disappointing sixth-place qualifying finish prompted an explosive reaction over team radio.
Despite the profanity-laden outburst, Leclerc is unlikely to face sanctions from the FIA.
The governing body recently revised its penalties for swearing, distinguishing between "controlled" environments like press conferences and "uncontrolled" situations such as team radio during racing. This change followed significant pushback from drivers against stricter enforcement of language rules.
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This morning's support races have continued despite the challenging conditions, with F4, F3 and F2 events proceeding as scheduled.
This demonstrates that racing remains possible even in the current wet weather, though conditions are far from ideal.
Thunderstorms are expected at the British Grand Prix
PA
Track officials and teams will be closely monitoring the weather radar as the afternoon approaches. The forecast suggesting potential improvement by 3pm offers encouragement for those hoping to see dry racing conditions.
Silverstone's drainage systems will be tested as standing water could pose significant risks at racing speeds. Teams are preparing for all eventualities, with wet weather setups ready should the rain persist through to the race start.
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