Drivers ‘scared’ of wet 2026 F1 cars, warns Brundle as Canadian GP rain looms

Formula 1 drivers are reportedly “a bit scared” of racing the 2026 cars in wet conditions, with rain forecast for Sunday’s Canadian Grand Prix. Pierre Gasly, after a recent wet tyre test at Magny-Cours, teased that his rivals will be “shocked” by the challenge — and Martin Brundle warns the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve could deliver dramatic first wet running.

Why it matters:

Four rounds into the 2026 season, drivers have yet to push the new cars in a competitive wet setting. The combination of high power and reduced downforce makes traction and visibility tough, and Montreal’s unforgiving walls leave little room for error. A wet race could reshape the championship order.

The details:

• Martin Brundle told Sky F1 that drivers are “all a little bit scared of just what these cars are going to be like in the rain,” noting they have “so much power and less downforce, less grip.”
• The Canadian GP has a 60% chance of light to moderate showers on Sunday. Only one of the last eight Montreal races has gone without a Safety Car, underlining the track’s risk.
• Pierre Gasly, after completing Pirelli’s 2027 wet tyre test, warned fellow drivers: “You guys are going to be shocked!” He declined to elaborate when asked what makes it so challenging.
• The event is a Sprint weekend, the third such format in five rounds — adding another layer of complexity if wet weather arrives early.

What’s next:

The forecast remains dry until race day, but if rain hits, the paddock will get its first true read on 2026 car behaviour in wet conditions. Drivers and teams will be watching the radar closely, and the outcome could influence development priorities for the remainder of the season.