While Formula 1 has reached the 16th round of the 2026 season without a wet-weather race under new regulations, fans have awaited the first meaningful test. Initial safety concerns prompted the FIA to increase intermediate tyre blanket temperatures and ban boost mode in the wet. Drivers have struggled to maintain intermediate tyre temperature, notably in Montreal, described as "the perfect storm" by Pirelli Chief Engineer Simone Berra due to cold conditions and low-energy layouts.
McLaren started on intermediates in Canada, a mistake as rain failed to materialize. Pierre Gasly identifies the Sepang International Circuit as the 'easiest' location for a wet race in 2026, citing high temperatures, rough asphalt, and elevation changes that facilitate water clearance. Pirelli shares this view, with Berra confirming Sepang is the ideal circuit to test wet-weather tyres.
Unlike Montreal's fears of cold-induced overheating challenges, Malaysia's high heat presents the opposite risk: overheating if rain dries quickly. Berra notes the rough surface adds another variable. If problems arise, they will differ significantly from those feared in Canada.
Gasly, while negative on early 2026 wet testing at Silverstone and Magny-Cours, expects conditions in Malaysia to be "in a much better place.".
Source: Autosport F1 News · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing