Norris Tops the Timesheets in Singapore FP2, Verstappen Close Behind
Singapore, September 14, 2023 - Lando Norris set the pace in the second practice session for the Singapore Grand Prix, edging out Max Verstappen by a mere 0.045 seconds. The McLaren driver was on fire throughout the session, posting consistent lap times and ultimately securing the top spot on the timesheets.
Verstappen's Challenge
Verstappen, who was on a blistering run in the earlier FP1 session, followed close behind Norris. The reigning world champion was equally impressive throughout the session, showcasing the raw pace of his Red Bull RB19.
Ferrari's Struggles
The Ferrari duo of Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz Jr. found themselves off the pace, finishing the session in fifth and sixth, respectively. The Scuderia seem to be struggling for grip around the Marina Bay Street Circuit, which is particularly evident in the twisty and demanding corners.
Perez and Hamilton Close the Top 5
Sergio Perez, Verstappen's teammate, finished third in the session, demonstrating Red Bull's overall strong performance. Lewis Hamilton, driving for Mercedes, completed the top five, showing signs of improvement with his new upgrades.
Key Takeaways
- McLaren's pace: The British team appears to have found a strong performance window for the Singapore Grand Prix, with Norris's blistering pace setting the scene for a potential upset in qualifying.
- Red Bull's dominance: Despite not topping the timesheets in FP2, Verstappen and Perez's consistency highlights the Red Bull team's strong performance in the Singapore heat.
- Ferrari's struggles: The Italian team's lack of pace on the tight and demanding Marina Bay circuit puts them behind the curve in the race for pole position.
With qualifying scheduled for Saturday, the fight for the front row grid is set to be intense. The drivers will be looking to maximize their performance as every tenth of a second counts on this challenging street circuit. The Singapore Grand Prix promises to be a thrilling showdown, and the race for pole position will be crucial in determining the outcome of the weekend.
