Singapore GP Free Practice 2: 2024 Results - Verstappen Dominates as Ferrari Struggles
The second free practice session for the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix saw Max Verstappen continue his dominant form, topping the timesheets ahead of Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso. However, it was a challenging session for Ferrari, with Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz struggling for pace and encountering reliability issues.
Verstappen's Pace Unmatched
Red Bull Racing continued to dominate the proceedings as Verstappen set the fastest lap time of 1:28.561, showcasing the team's incredible performance in the challenging Singapore street circuit. Hamilton followed closely behind, ending the session just 0.244 seconds behind the Dutchman, while Alonso secured third place, 0.515 seconds off the pace.
Ferrari Struggles for Pace and Reliability
Ferrari's hopes of challenging Red Bull were dampened during the session. Leclerc and Sainz found themselves trailing the top runners, finishing in 6th and 9th position respectively. Both drivers struggled to find grip and complained about the car's balance. Adding to their woes, Sainz experienced a technical issue with his car, forcing him to abandon his session early.
Mercedes and Aston Martin Impress
Hamilton's performance in the second session was a clear indicator of Mercedes' strong pace and their ability to compete with the frontrunners. George Russell also looked competitive, finishing the session in 5th place. Aston Martin also displayed impressive pace, with Alonso and Lance Stroll finishing within the top 10.
Key Takeaways from Free Practice 2
- Verstappen's dominance: Red Bull's pace is a clear threat to the other teams, with Verstappen looking unstoppable.
- Ferrari's struggles: The team needs to find a solution to their performance woes if they are to challenge for victory.
- Mercedes and Aston Martin's progress: Both teams are showing strong pace and are potential contenders for the podium.
The second practice session offered a glimpse into the competitive landscape for the Singapore Grand Prix. While Red Bull currently appears to hold the edge, the remaining teams will be eager to close the gap and challenge for victory in the race. The third practice session and qualifying session will provide further insight into the true order of the grid, setting the stage for an exciting race on Sunday.
