Lewis Hamilton set the pace in a new venue that is a very tricky street circuit.
JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia—Lewis Hamilton did not have any difficulties keeping his challenge with Max Verstappen for the world title. Hamilton won Free Practice 1 and 2, and the Briton recorded the fastest lap of the evening in the second session at 1:29:018. Friday’s action was in preparation for Sunday’s maiden running of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
Hamilton’s Mercedes teammate Valtteri Bottas was second, with Alpha Tauri’s Pierre Gasly in third. Meanwhile, Hamilton’s rival, Max Verstappen, had a disappointing evening and finished in fourth.
The circuit had many drivers making oversteering errors, including Hamilton. The second session was cut short by five minutes as Ferrari’s Leclerc lost control of his rear end and crashed into the barriers at turn 22, putting out a red flag. Although Leclerc emerged unhurt, officials decided not to resume the session as marshals cleaned up the heavily damaged car. The mishap will mean that Ferrari mechanics are in for a long night to get the car ready for Saturday’s qualifying run.
With the circuit just finished last week, the cars will still have to get used to the 22-turn course that is the fastest street circuit on the schedule. Analysts predict that race-day speeds may get close to 160 miles per hour.
Sports fans can view Free Practice 3 at 9a Eastern on Saturday via ESPN2. ESPNN will broadcast the qualifying session at Noon Eastern.
