Formula 1 got its first true test of the new 2026 cars in the wet at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, and former driver David Coulthard believes the sport is now too cautious about racing in the rain—potentially at the expense of its historic spirit.
Wet-Weather Drama in Brazil
Qualifying took place in treacherous conditions, with Lando Norris seizing pole and converting it into a memorable victory. On race day, rains created chaos and forced strategy shifts amidst a rapidly drying and then waterlogged track. Although qualifying was delayed by an hour and a half due to the weather, F1 ultimately delivered one of the season’s best races.
Coulthard: F1 Too Conservative?
Coulthard, speaking on the Up to Speed podcast, acknowledged the importance of safety but argued that modern F1 errs too far on the side of caution:
“We definitely are a lot more health and safety conscious. Which is the modern world we live in. I don’t want to see anyone getting hurt, but I do think sometimes we don’t fully respect the history by erring on the side of caution rather than, ‘Let’s give it a go!’”
He reflected that while caution prevents criticism if things go wrong, it also diminishes the spectacle fans associate with classic wet-weather races.
Balancing Safety and Spectacle
Coulthard conceded the difficulty of the FIA’s position, weighing feedback and safety against excitement. Still, he suggested that Brazil proved F1 can run—and shine—when conditions are less than perfect.
“Where if you go on the side of caution, you have people going, ‘Well, why don’t we see wet running anymore?’”
With Brazil among the season’s most talked-about races, the debate over how Formula 1 handles rainy race weekends continues to make waves.
