Formula 1 Today: Lando Norris Sets the Pace in FP1 at Spanish Grand Prix
In the opening practice session of the Spanish Grand Prix weekend, Lando Norris made a strong statement, clocking the fastest lap in FP1 ahead of championship leader Max Verstappen.
The British driver claimed the top spot prior to a red flag in the second half of the session at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, with his longer runs on soft tyres ensuring he maintained his position. Norris’ 1m14.228s lap, which included the fastest first sector on fresh softs, remained unbeaten for the remainder of the session.
George Russell initially set the pace with a 1m15.753s on hard tyres, breaking into the 1m15s barrier first in the Friday F1 session. Verstappen then raised the bar with a 1m15.424s on hard tyres, a time that stood as the benchmark throughout the first quarter of the session.
As the session progressed, Russell and Carlos Sainz opted for mediums, with Sainz briefly taking the lead. However, Verstappen’s switch to soft tyres yielded a 1m14.252s lap, reclaiming the top spot. Norris then surpassed Verstappen’s time, setting the fastest lap of the session.
A red flag due to debris at Turn 9, originating from Fernando Alonso’s Aston Martin, temporarily halted the session. Following the resumption, many teams focused on higher-fuel runs on used tyres, leaving Norris’ time untouched.
Verstappen preserved second place, despite reporting issues with his clutch entering into an anti-stall mode during slower corners. Sainz was third fastest, the quickest of those who set times on mediums, after overcoming initial power issues with his Ferrari.
The top six was completed by Russell, Sergio Perez, and Oscar Piastri, with Lewis Hamilton finishing seventh, just under 0.3s shy of his teammate Russell. Esteban Ocon, Alonso, and Alex Albon rounded out the top 10.
Haas reserve Ollie Bearman, standing in for Nico Hulkenberg, finished 19th fastest, only 0.2s adrift of teammate Kevin Magnussen.
Spanish GP – FP1 Results:
“With the first practice session complete, the stage is set for an intense weekend of racing at the Spanish Grand Prix. Stay tuned for the latest Formula 1 news, Formula 1 standings, and Formula 1 calendar updates.”
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