Phillip Island was washed out by torrential rain on Friday morning with the hazardous conditions getting the 2024 Australian MotoGP FP1 canceled.
Scheduled to commence earlier in the day, the session was initially postponed due to worsening weather conditions, which ultimately forced Race Direction to abandon it altogether.
The decision was not made lightly, as the anticipation surrounding the event was palpable among teams, riders, and fans alike.
As Friday dawned, forecasts indicated wet weather, but the reality proved far more severe. Following a brief run of Moto2 practice, conditions deteriorated significantly after rain began to accumulate on the newly resurfaced asphalt, creating a hazardous situation characterized by standing water.
Riders voiced their concerns about aquaplaning risks, which were exacerbated by the inability of the new track surface to drain effectively. Australian rider and local favorite Jack Miller humorously remarked on the situation, saying they were getting “the full Phillip Island experience,” acknowledging both the beauty and unpredictability of the weather at this iconic circuit.
The initial optimism that accompanied the morning’s activities quickly turned into frustration as delays piled up. After nearly two hours of waiting for conditions to improve, Race Direction announced that FP1 would officially be cancelled shortly after 12:30 local time.
The cancellation raises significant concerns regarding how it will impact the overall schedule for the weekend. With further rain anticipated throughout Friday, there are questions about whether additional practice sessions will proceed as planned.
In response to FP1’s cancellation, a revised practice schedule has been issued. The afternoon session has been adjusted to a standard one-hour format instead of the previously planned 80-minute session.
The crucial practice will now start at 15:00 local time and will play a vital role in determining which ten riders will gain direct access to Qualifying 2.
Saturday morning’s final free practice has also been extended from its usual 30 minutes to 40 minutes, allowing teams some additional time to gather data before qualifying begins.
The implications of getting Australian MotoGP FP1 canceled are significant for teams and riders alike. With Michelin introducing an expanded tire selection in response to the new asphalt at Phillip Island, teams are eager to gather data on tire performance under varying conditions.
The soft rear slick tire—previously used by many during last year’s race—has undergone changes in construction for this season. The medium and hard rears now feature a stiffer design intended to withstand higher temperatures, which could prove crucial during race day.
While Friday’s forecast remains grim with continued rain expected, Saturday is predicted to bring dryer conditions albeit with windy weather. Sunday is anticipated to offer the best conditions of the weekend, potentially allowing for a thrilling race day experience.
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