The Saudi Arabian GP weather is expected to deliver searing heat and high humidity across all three days of Formula 1’s fifth round of the 2025 season at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit.
Despite sessions taking place in the evening, conditions will remain harsh, with temperatures hovering above 30°C and track temperatures climbing even higher. As Formula 1’s final race in the season-opening triple-header, the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix brings more than just high-speed action — it brings a punishing test of endurance.
With Lando Norris leading the standings, and Oscar Piastri riding high after his Bahrain win, the battle is intensifying under the Arabian lights. However, the weather in Jeddah might end up being the toughest opponent of all.
Saudi Arabian GP weather forecast: Hot, dry and relentless
The forecast for the Saudi Arabian GP weather shows consistently high temperatures and sticky humidity, despite the night-time start times for FP2, qualifying, and the race.
Friday, April 18 – FP1 & FP2
The 2025 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix kicks off under the blazing Jeddah sun, with FP1 taking place in the peak afternoon heat. Conditions are expected to be dry and windy, adding a gritty edge to the session as drivers begin setup work. Later in the evening for FP2, temperatures will cool slightly but remain challenging due to rising humidity and warm night air.
While the chance of rain is low, the combination of crosswinds and a sticky atmosphere could affect aero balance and overall grip. It’s a critical day for teams to dial in cooling systems and manage tyre temperatures, particularly as FP2 will provide the most relevant race simulation data under similar conditions.
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- Maximum Temperature: 33°C (FP1) / 29°C (FP2)
- Minimum Temperature: 22°C
- Chance of Rain: 3%
- Wind Speed: 30 kph gusts in FP1, dropping to 20 kph by FP2
- Humidity: 47% in FP1, rising to 52% in FP2
Saturday, April 19 – FP3 & Qualifying
Saturday in Jeddah brings even hotter daytime conditions during FP3, pushing temperatures above 35°C. Teams will use this session mainly for final adjustments, though the heat will limit the session’s relevance to the cooler night qualifying. Wind gusts are expected again in the afternoon, with breezes tapering off after sunset.
By the time Qualifying starts, the temperature will settle slightly, and humidity will climb — though it remains manageable. These conditions are similar to race day, so expect teams to test light-fuel setups and tyre warm-up procedures carefully.
- Maximum Temperature: 35°C (FP3) / 31°C (Qualifying)
- Minimum Temperature: 24°C
- Chance of Rain: 0%
- Wind Speed: 30 kph (FP3), easing into 15–20 kph (Qualifying)
- Humidity: 42% (FP3), rising to 53% in Qualifying
Sunday, April 20 – Grand Prix
The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix gets underway under the lights on Sunday night, but the heat won’t be far behind. Although the ambient temperature is expected to be around 27°C at race start, the heat index — the “feels like” temperature — will be closer to 32°C due to elevated humidity.
Track temperatures could still be oppressive after soaking up heat during the day. Coupled with low wind and no rain relief, this will be a draining race for drivers. Hydration, tyre management, and pit strategy will be critical — as will cockpit cooling and engine efficiency, which could all be impacted by the heavy night air.
- Maximum Temperature: 34°C
- Minimum Temperature: 25°C
- Chance of Rain: 0%
- Wind Speed: 15 kph, dropping during the race
- Humidity: 54%
Safety concerns remain despite FIA cooling initiative
The intense Saudi Arabian GP weather has once again raised concerns about driver safety, echoing the 2023 Qatar GP when drivers, including Esteban Ocon, suffered heat-related illnesses. Ocon famously vomited in his helmet, while others needed medical attention post-race.
The FIA’s newly introduced cooling vests remain under evaluation, but drivers are unconvinced. “No, is the answer,” said Oscar Piastri when asked if he planned to use one. Ocon added that current vest designs are “too bulky” and may require a complete seat redesign.
Heat, humidity and race strategy
Humidity will not just affect the drivers — it will challenge every technical element of the car. High moisture in the air reduces engine efficiency, while also increasing cockpit discomfort. Teams will need to adjust brake ducts, radiators and tyre strategy to adapt to the Jeddah weather conditions.
Dehydration is another major concern. Drivers will rely on pre-race conditioning, hydration protocols, and in-session fluid systems to manage their energy levels throughout the 50-lap race.
Learning from the past to handle the heat
Past weather-affected races, such as Bahrain and Qatar, offer crucial insight for teams preparing for the Saudi Arabian GP weather challenge. From tyre degradation to cooling strategies, previous learnings help shape real-time decisions as conditions evolve.
This weekend will test not just the fastest car but the best-prepared team — physically, technically, and strategically.
