F1 Singapore FP1: Leclerc Leads, Highlights
The first practice session for the Singapore Grand Prix saw Charles Leclerc set the pace for Ferrari, but it was a session full of drama and intrigue, with plenty of talking points for fans to chew on.
Leclerc on Top
Leclerc topped the timesheets with a 1:42.228, showcasing the Ferrari's strong pace around the Marina Bay Street Circuit. His teammate, Carlos Sainz, was close behind in second, rounding out a positive start for the Scuderia.
Mercedes Struggle
Lewis Hamilton and George Russell struggled to find their rhythm in the first session, finishing 10th and 12th respectively. Mercedes's struggles continued, with both drivers complaining about the car's handling and lack of grip.
Verstappen's Glitch
Max Verstappen suffered a power unit issue that forced him to stop on track, halting the session for a brief period. This incident left Red Bull with a lot of ground to cover in the remaining practice sessions.
Red Bull's Response
Despite Verstappen's setback, Sergio Perez managed to finish in third, showing Red Bull's potential. However, the team will be looking to close the gap to Ferrari and address the reliability concerns.
Notable Moments
- Several drivers, including Lando Norris and Fernando Alonso, encountered spins in the challenging Singapore conditions.
- The session was red-flagged twice, once for Verstappen's power unit issue and again for debris on the track.
- AlphaTauri's Yuki Tsunoda had a brief off-track excursion, which caused minor damage to his car.
What to Expect
The Singapore Grand Prix promises to be an exciting race, with Ferrari and Red Bull likely to be in a close fight for the lead. Mercedes will be aiming to bounce back from a disappointing FP1, while the midfield teams are eager to capitalize on any opportunities that may arise.
The second practice session is scheduled for later today, providing further insight into the teams' performance and strategy.
