Yes, it is true what you have just read, and your eyes are not deceiving you at this time of day. The first practice session (FP1) was interrupted due to a fire that started in the grass at Turn 7. The fire had to be extinguished before the session could continue. The reason behind the fire is still unknown at this time.
As this is the only practice session of the weekend, there was a greater emphasis on getting some proper track time. This is because the second event of the day would be the Sprint qualifying. It is the first time since 2019 that Formula 1 is back in China, and it is also the first time that the Formula 1 cars with ground effect, equipped with new 18″ tires, will race at the Shanghai International Circuit. Additionally, it is the first time that a Sprint weekend is being held at this venue.
Teams and drivers will face challenges with only one hour of practice available to gather as much data as possible before the serious competition begins with the Sprint qualifying. To further complicate things, the track has been treated with Bitumen, a substance derived from crude oil known for its waterproofing and adhesive properties. This treatment will further hinder teams’ ability to predict the grip level on the track.
It is worth noting that the last corner of the circuit has been modified with the addition of a small gravel strip. In addition to these changes, Red Bull arrives in Shanghai with confidence after their one-two finish in Japan two weeks ago. However, the various variables and unknown factors surrounding this race may make it more interesting for spectators.
This weekend marks a historic moment as Zhou Guanyu becomes the first Chinese driver to race in his home country. It is a significant achievement for the driver, his nation, and his loyal fans, although it is regrettable that he is driving for Sauber.
In terms of tire selection, Pirelli has brought the C2 (Hard), C3 (Medium), and C4 (Soft) compounds for this weekend’s race. The Chinese Grand Prix returns to the calendar after a five-year hiatus. This means that the drivers, teams, and Pirelli are essentially starting from scratch, as the previous generation of cars used 13-inch tires in 2019.
Several teams introduced updates during the weekend, including Mercedes, which made adjustments to its Halo by adding small appendages on each side of the cockpit behind it. This modification is expected to create a vortex that improves airflow to the rear of the car. Alpine also made changes to its floor, with a mailbox diffuser and revised sidepods. Additionally, they introduced new floor edges and floor fences. Williams upgraded their Halo with enhanced front geometry.
Red Bull implemented a new headrest design, specifically reshaping the area behind the driver’s helmet. Haas made significant updates with a new floor edge, floor fences, a revised engine cover/coke, rear corner, and mirrors.
The session started with dry conditions and a slightly cloudy sky. The track temperature was recorded at 39 degrees Celsius, while the ambient temperature was at 23 degrees. Teams opted for a mix of tire compounds, showcasing all three types at the beginning of the session. Hamilton and Perez faced some challenges on the track, with Zhou noting that grip was average.
After 12 minutes, both Ferrari cars finally entered the track session, using the red wall tires for their qualifying laps. However, just 15 minutes after the start of the session, a red flag was raised due to a fire that started in the grass at Turn 7. The session resumed once the fire was extinguished, with Albon leading the drivers back to the track.
With 35 minutes remaining, Russell finally decided to set a timed lap using hard tires, but ended up in 20th place. A replay showed Hamilton and Hulkenberg having a racing incident, with Hamilton receiving a black and white flag for crossing the pit entry line while battling for the same position as Piastri from McLaren. Hamilton’s mistake was caused by Piastri pushing him back into the pits.
Sainz also had to visit the pits to check his floor after hitting the Turn 10 curbs hard, throwing gravel up. Alonso and Piastri made similar mistakes, missing the track and heading to the pits after locking up their wheels.
In the last ten minutes of the session, qualifying laps began in earnest, resulting in faster lap times. Perez and Hamilton had small locking moments at Turn 6, but managed to stay on track. However, Hamilton ended up in the run-off area. The session ended with practice starts.
Report in progress…
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Formula 1 driver Max Verstappen achieved an incredible victory at the French Grand Prix this Sunday. Verstappen, from the Red Bull Racing team, surpassed his rivals and crossed the finish line in first place, securing the lead in the championship. With an impressive performance, the young Dutch driver showed his skill and determination in winning the race.
The race was intense from the start, with several thrilling battles between the drivers. Verstappen started on pole position and maintained the lead for most of the race. However, Lewis Hamilton from the Mercedes team did not make things easy for the Red Bull driver. The two engaged in an exciting duel, with several overtakes and risky maneuvers.
In the end, Verstappen managed to stay ahead of Hamilton and crossed the finish line with a comfortable lead. With this victory, the Dutch driver extended his lead in the championship and showed that he is determined to win this season’s title.
In addition to Verstappen and Hamilton, other drivers also stood out in the race. Sergio Perez, Verstappen’s teammate, finished in third place, securing a double podium for Red Bull Racing. Charles Leclerc from Ferrari also had a good performance and finished in fourth place.
The next race of the season will be the Austrian Grand Prix, which will take place next weekend. With Verstappen’s victory in France, the anticipation for the next race is even higher. It will be interesting to see if the Dutch driver can maintain his good performance and secure another win.
Formula 1 fans are eager to follow the rest of the season and see who will be the champion this year. With so many talented drivers and thrilling battles, the competition promises to be intense until the end. Stay tuned for more news and updates on Formula 1.
