On Friday in Abu Dhabi, it was McLaren that drew first blood, with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri finishing first and second respectively. The Woking team is looking to secure its first constructors’ title in 26 years, with Ferrari as the only remaining challenger.
However, Ferrari suffered a blow, as Charles Leclerc will lose 10 grid positions after mounting his third power reserve of the campaign before FP1.
At Red Bull, it was a difficult day for Max Verstappen. During the first practice session, the Dutchman was on the sidelines while Isack Hadjar took the wheel.
This meant he only had two hours of practice to pick up speed and in the second session of the weekend, Verstappen complained of understeer and lack of grip at the wheel. The field was close, but the four-time world champion conceded up to a full second to Lando Norris.
Verstappen has yet to take pole position since the Austrian Grand Prix, with Norris emerging as the early favourite to secure the last pole of the season in Abu Dhabi. Watch Verstappen and Norris’ qualifying runs from the second free practice session below.
The weekend is also quite significant for Lewis Hamilton, who undertakes his final race event for Mercedes.
It would be an exciting moment if the partnership could end on a high note, however good form on track has not often been the case this season for the seven-time world champion. For Verstappen, there is hope in the Red Bull camp that he can create a memorable turnaround like the one shown in Qatar.
In fact, the data from the long races is not very positive for Verstappen either, at least in terms of winning chances. Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri were able to lead several laps in a row in the 1:29 range, with Piastri in particular impressing with a couple of low times in the 1:29 range.
Hamilton also showed excellent times, while Verstappen’s speed dropped during his stint, suggesting he is on the defensive. Ferrari also seem to be in the mix, but the key question will be how far can Leclerc climb when the penalty is applied? Watch the long runs of Verstappen, Norris, Piastri, Leclerc and Hamilton in the second free practice session below!
Leave a comment