2024-04-06 08:55:05
Max Verstappen continues to drive at the front, including in free practice in Suzuka. Ferrari apparently held back.
World champion Max Verstappen has confirmed his role as favorite for the Japanese Grand Prix (Sunday, 7 a.m. CEST/Sky). The Red Bull driver was clearly fastest in the last free practice session before qualifying (8 a.m. CEST/Sky) in 1:29.563 minutes, followed by his teammate Sergio Perez (+0.269) and Mercedes driver George on the cult circuit in Suzuka Russell (+0.355).
Australia winner Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc didn’t put all their cards on the table yet, the Ferrari duo only ended up in seventh and tenth place. But both made a strong impression in the long runs, which raises hopes for a potentially exciting race.
Hülkenberg only in 16th place
As expected, Nico Hülkenberg had problems in the Haas and ended up in 16th place (+1.576), the Emmericher will hardly be able to compete for the points in Japan.
Verstappen had won the first two races of the season, two weeks ago in Australia he remained without points after a technical defect and Sainz took victory. Nevertheless, Verstappen leads the World Cup standings by four points over Charles Leclerc (Ferrari).