Coulthard says F1 does not fully respect its wet-weather history

David Coulthard believes Formula 1 does not fully respect the history of the sport by taking a cautious approach to racing in wet conditions. His comments follow the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, where the new 2026 cars ran in the wet for the first time, with qualifying held in treacherous conditions and the race also affected by rain.

Qualifying was red-flagged for an hour and a half before it was completed, with McLaren's Lando Norris taking pole position and going on to win the race. Coulthard acknowledged that the FIA decides whether a track is open, based on driver feedback and previous experience of standing water and aquaplaning, but said the sport is now more health and safety conscious than before.

Coleman said he does not want to see anyone hurt, but suggested that sometimes the sport errs too far on the side of caution rather than giving it a go. Brazil was widely hailed as one of the best races of the 2026 season.