F1 drivers brace for first wet-weather test of 2026 as Belgian Grand Prix rain threatens Spa weekend

Formula 1 may finally discover how its new-generation cars perform in wet conditions when the Belgian Grand Prix gets underway this weekend.

Rain is forecast for Friday's practice sessions and Saturday's qualifying, raising the prospect of the first meaningful wet-weather running since the sport introduced its 2026 regulations.

While teams have spent months learning the strengths and weaknesses of the new cars in dry conditions, the rain remains one of the biggest unknowns heading into round 10 of the championship.

Drivers have already voiced concerns about how the narrower tyres and revised power units could behave on a soaked circuit, with several warning that Spa-Francorchamps' unpredictable conditions could create a difficult weekend.

Tyres and power units remain a concern

Pirelli developed its 2026 wet-weather tyres using modified cars from the previous rules cycle, meaning there has been little opportunity to test the latest machines in representative rain conditions.

The FIA has already responded by increasing the permitted blanket temperature for intermediate tyres on safety grounds, while allowing limited heating for full-wet tyres.

Lewis Hamilton, who completed Ferrari's wet-weather test programme earlier this season, has already called for warmer tyres and admitted the new compounds do not inspire the same confidence as previous versions.

Pierre Gasly, another driver with wet-testing experience, hinted that teams could be in for a surprise.

"You guys are gonna be shocked," the Alpine driver joked after completing development work for Pirelli.

Carlos Sainz added that concerns about aquaplaning and difficulty getting the tyres into their operating window have already been raised by drivers who sampled the compounds.

F1 drivers preparing for the unknown at Spa

McLaren's Oscar Piastri believes the tyres are only part of the challenge, warning that Formula 1's new hybrid power units may prove equally difficult to manage in changing conditions.

"These power units don't like it when you're inconsistent, and it's basically impossible to be consistent in the rain," Piastri explained.

Fernando Alonso also admitted Aston Martin enters the weekend with very little wet-weather knowledge under the current regulations.

"It's going to be a challenge for everyone," the Spaniard said.

Pirelli motorsport director Dario Marrafuschi acknowledged there are still unknowns surrounding the tyres but insisted the manufacturer will study all available data if rain arrives at Spa.

Should the forecast prove accurate, this weekend's Belgian Grand Prix may offer Formula 1 its clearest indication yet of whether the sport's new regulations are truly ready for racing in the wet.

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