Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc delivered a standout performance during the sole Free Practice 1 (FP1) session of the 2024 Qatar Grand Prix, topping the timesheets ahead of McLaren’s Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, as well as his teammate Carlos Sainz. In a weekend defined by the Sprint format, performance in FP1 held greater significance, especially on the demanding Lusail International Circuit.
A CRUCIAL SESSION IN THE SPRINT FORMAT
With the Sprint format in play, FP1 became unusually important as the only chance for drivers to fine-tune their cars before qualifying. Cooler track conditions compared to previous editions added another layer of complexity to the session.
The opening minutes saw intense activity, with teams utilizing Pirelli’s hard and medium tires to gather critical data. This created significant traffic on the track, accompanied by a flurry of radio complaints. Amid this scenario, Leclerc clocked an impressive provisional time of 1m 23.702s, securing the top spot on the leaderboard.
SOFT TIRES CHANGE THE GAME
In the final 10 minutes of the session, the introduction of soft tires brought a wave of improvements. Leclerc capitalized on the opportunity, setting a definitive time of 1m 21.953s to claim first place with a four-tenths advantage over Norris and Piastri.
Carlos Sainz secured fourth place, half a second behind his teammate. Meanwhile, Yuki Tsunoda, Valtteri Bottas, and Lance Stroll surprised many by finishing among the top seven with fast late-session laps.
MIXED RESULTS FOR FAVORITES
Newly crowned 2024 champion Max Verstappen had a subdued start, finishing 11th after reporting balance issues in his Red Bull. Mercedes drivers George Russell and Lewis Hamilton faced similar challenges, ending the session in eighth and tenth, respectively.
Fernando Alonso placed 12th with his Aston Martin, while Sergio Pérez endured a difficult session, finishing 19th. Others, like Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon, also struggled, as their best times were set on medium tires.
EXPECTATIONS FOR THE SPRINT QUALIFYING
With the data collected during FP1, teams must refine their setups for the intense Sprint qualifying session, scheduled to begin at 8:30 PM local time. Drivers will need to maximize every second on a track that has proven both technical and demanding.
Leclerc’s dominance in this session strengthens Ferrari’s ambitions in the constructors’ championship battle, while McLaren and Red Bull must respond quickly to avoid losing ground in what promises to be a thrilling weekend.
