Proceedings kick off very soon in Spain for round six in the 2022 season, as Red Bull and Ferrari continue their battle for the title lead as Max Verstappen edges closer to Charles Leclerc in first.
One of the main components of each team’s strategy is the weather, with heat, wind, and rain dictating each team’s plan for race day.
However it seems as if the chances of rain are as low as 5% on race day – but temperatures are due to soar in the high 20s meaning track temperature will be even higher.
The effect heat has on the Pirellis can range from changing the chemical compound of the rubber – leading to thermal degradation – to physically destroying the tyre, leading to graining and blistering.
Both result in less grip on the track and therefore slower lap times.
According to forecasters, Friday is due to be sunny with a gentle breeze and only a 1-5% chance of rain. Humidity is due to be high at 60%in the mid-afternoon and 80 in the morning.
Temperatures will be at around 21 degrees for FP1 and 23C for FP2.
Saturday has a similar outlook, with low wind speeds while temperatures are due to rise by a degree up to 24 for qualifying. Humidity remains high in the mid-60s.
Then on Sunday, temperatures are again set for 24C and with the chance of rain sitting very low at 5%. There will be some gentle breezes of 15mph, while humidity decreased into the low 60s.