Max Verstappen Tops FP3 Charts in Dramatic Saudi Arabian GP Practice Session
In a thrilling final free practice session (FP3) for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Max Verstappen emerged as the fastest driver. The session was marked by notable incidents including a debut for Oliver Bearman and a crash involving Zhou Guanyu.
Key Takeaways:
- Red Bull’s Max Verstappen led the FP3 timings at the Saudi Arabian GP, demonstrating his team’s strong performance. Charles Leclerc and Sergio Perez followed with the second and third fastest times, intensifying the competition for the upcoming Qualifying.
- Ferrari’s newcomer, Oliver Bearman, stepped in for Carlos Sainz, drawing considerable attention. Bearman, fresh from his Formula 2 pole position, faced a challenging F1 debut weekend.
- The session saw its share of incidents: Williams’ Logan Sargeant hit a wall, causing a puncture and damage that prevented further participation, while Zhou Guanyu suffered a crash, leading to a session-halting red flag, though he was unharmed.
In an eventful final practice at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Red Bull’s Max Verstappen stamped his authority by setting the fastest time on soft tyres. The session not only showcased the competitive edge of the drivers but also brought some dramatic moments to the fore.
Ferrari’s weekend took an unexpected turn with Oliver Bearman replacing Carlos Sainz, who was sidelined due to appendicitis. Bearman’s entrance into Formula 1 comes hot on the heels of his impressive performance in Formula 2, making his debut highly anticipated.
Amid the usual competitive spirit, the session witnessed some concerning incidents. Logan Sargeant’s encounter with the Turn 22 wall resulted in a punctured tyre and significant damage to his Williams car. His team, led by principal James Vowles, was unable to get the car back on track, marking a premature end to his FP3 run.
Adding to the drama, championship leader Max Verstappen reported hitting an unidentified object, suspected to be “a plastic bottle or something,” at Turn 10, prompting a quick pit stop for a check-up. This incident underlines the unpredictable nature of Formula 1 racing and the challenges drivers face.
The session was temporarily suspended following Zhou Guanyu’s crash after losing control at Turn 7. The impact brought out the red flag, halting the practice. Guanyu’s wellbeing was confirmed, but the incident left his team, Sauber, with significant repair work ahead of the crucial Qualifying session.
As the teams prepare for Qualifying, the FP3 results set the stage for an exciting race weekend, with Verstappen leading the pack, followed closely by rivals Leclerc and Perez. The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix continues to deliver excitement and unpredictability, encapsulating the essence of Formula 1 racing.
