Australian Grand Prix weather guide: Rainfall and humidity poses a threat

Formula 1 is finally back, with the Australian Grand Prix kicking off the 2025 season this weekend. The season-opener is set to feature six rookie F1 drivers, all of whom face the challenges of high humidity and expected rainfall during the first of the year at the time of writing.

After the start time of the Australian Grand Prix changed to 3 pm, much to the upset of the European fans, the drivers and teams now have the added complication of it beginning to go dark towards the end of the race. This would become even more complicated if there are any delays.

2025 Australian Grand Prix weather forecast

Friday, 14 March

Free Practice 1: 12:30 - 13:30 local time
Free Practice 2: 16:00 - 17:00 local time

Friday will host the first two practice sessions of the Grand Prix weekend. As FP1 gets underway, the morning clouds should be starting to disperse to bring in the predicted afternoon sun. Temperatures are expected to reach 28°C.

There is only a 7% chance of rain on Friday and SSW winds at 5-10 mph. The high humidity, which is currently predicted to be between 63% and 69%, could pose a threat to the drivers.

Saturday, 15 March

Free Practice 3: 12:30 - 13:30 local time
Qualifying: 16:00 - 17:00 local time

Carlos Sainz, Ferrari SF-24

Photo by: Mark Horsburgh / Motorsport Images

The temperatures on Saturday see a steep rise in comparison to Friday with a high of 37 degrees predicted. However, the humidity drops to between 37% and 43%. Winds are expected to change to NNW at 10-15 mph, and the day should overall be fairly cloudy. 

Predicted rainfall increases from a 3% chance during the day to 21% during the evening. With Qualifying finishing at 5 pm, the rainfall could pose a threat towards the end of the session.

Sunday, 16 March

Grand Prix: 15:00 local time

Race day is where it gets interesting. After minimal rain is predicted on Friday and Saturday, the chance of rainfall increases to 80% during the Grand Prix. On top of this, the humidity is expected to be between 63-72%. 10-20 mph westerly winds are also predicted with a high of 25 degrees.

Sunset is expected at roughly 19:30 so daylight will likely become an issue should there be any delays. Looking back at recent years and the chance of red flags, this could be likely.