Leclerc Tops the Timesheet in Singapore GP FP1: Ferrari Dominate as Red Bull Struggle
Singapore, September 14, 2023 - Charles Leclerc set the pace in a rain-affected opening practice session for the Singapore Grand Prix, edging out teammate Carlos Sainz to put Ferrari in control of the early running. The Monegasque driver, known for his strong performance in street circuits, clocked a best time of 1:44.276, a significant 0.4 seconds ahead of Sainz.
Rain and Red Flag Disrupt the Session
The session was marked by intermittent rain throughout, forcing teams to adapt their strategy and tire choices. A red flag in the final minutes, caused by Nicholas Latifi's Williams stopping on track, further disrupted the proceedings, leaving many drivers with limited running time.
Ferrari's Dominance
Leclerc's commanding performance showcased Ferrari's strong pace on the Marina Bay Street Circuit. Their SF-23 car, known for its agility and strong downforce, seemed well-suited to the tight and twisty nature of the track. Sainz, Leclerc's teammate, consistently remained within striking distance, indicating a strong team performance.
Red Bull Struggle for Grip
Red Bull, who have dominated the championship this season, were off the pace in FP1. Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez found themselves in fifth and ninth place respectively, with their RB19 struggling to find grip on the wet track.
Alpine and McLaren Impress
Alpine, fueled by their recent upgrade package, showed impressive performance with Esteban Ocon securing third place. Lando Norris, leading the charge for McLaren, finished fourth, suggesting a potential resurgence for the British team.
The Road Ahead
The rain is expected to continue throughout the weekend, adding another layer of complexity to the Singapore Grand Prix. While FP1 offered a glimpse of the competitive landscape, the remaining practice sessions and qualifying will be crucial in determining the race pace and overall strategy for each team.
The Singapore Grand Prix promises to be a thrilling event, with a mix of challenging weather conditions and the potential for exciting battles on the track. With Ferrari holding the early advantage and Red Bull struggling for pace, the first day of practice has set the stage for a captivating weekend of Formula 1 action.
