In preparation for the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League, Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen dominated the first practice session for the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka. Driving the updated RB20, Verstappen set the fastest time, despite the session being interrupted by a red flag caused by an accident involving a Williams driver. Logan Sargeant, who was driving a repaired monocoque from a previous crash, hit the wall at Turn 7 after running wide and touching the grass on his first flying lap. This accident further exacerbates the issues faced by Williams, who are already short on spare parts after a turbulent winter and the damage suffered in Australia.
Fortunately, the damage from the crash appears to be limited to removable parts, as the car’s nose was the most affected by the impact. However, Sargeant expressed remorse over the radio, fully aware of the potential consequences. Meanwhile, Verstappen’s teammate, Alexander Albon, had a promising session, finishing in 12th place.
Verstappen, who had a disappointing result in the Australian GP due to brake issues, bounced back by setting the fastest time in the first part of the session. Despite using hard tires instead of mediums, Verstappen clocked a time of 1m31.463s, three tenths faster than McLaren’s Lando Norris in that phase. He improved to 1m30.056s after the red flag, securing the top spot. Red Bull’s Sergio Perez also had a strong performance, setting a lap time just 0.181s slower than Verstappen.
The battle between McLaren and Ferrari is expected to be fierce, with Carlos Sainz from Ferrari finishing in third place, 0.213s behind Verstappen. Charles Leclerc, Sainz’s teammate, finished in sixth place. Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris from McLaren finished in eighth and tenth place, respectively, but their times were not representative due to the red flag interruption on their laps with soft tires.
Both McLaren and Ferrari made small improvements for this race, but it is still unknown which team will be the main challenger to Red Bull. However, Ferrari’s initial pace is promising. Mercedes, on the other hand, had low expectations for the race due to their difficulties this season and the problems faced in Suzuka last year. However, both George Russell and Lewis Hamilton surprised by finishing in fourth and fifth place, respectively. The Mercedes communications director described the car as significantly improved compared to last year, but it is still early to determine if this marks a turnaround for the team.
Aston Martin faced some challenges during the session, with Lance Stroll’s race being interrupted by damage to the aero rake at the back of the car. Fernando Alonso, Stroll’s teammate, showed encouraging pace and set the seventh fastest time. Red Bull junior driver Ayumu Iwasa made his Formula 1 weekend debut, finishing in 16th place.
Overall, the first practice session in Suzuka provided some interesting insights into the performance of the teams and drivers. The battle between Red Bull, McLaren, and Ferrari is proving to be intense, while Mercedes showed some improvement compared to last year. Aston Martin and Williams continue to face challenges, but there is still plenty of time for them to progress.
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The football star Cristiano Ronaldo scored another incredible goal during yesterday’s match. With his exceptional skill, Ronaldo showed why he is considered one of the best players in the world. The goal was scored in stoppage time of the second half, securing the victory for his team.
The match was thrilling from start to finish. Both teams showed exceptional performance, but it was Ronaldo who shone once again. With his speed and precision, he dribbled past the defenders and shot the ball into the top corner, leaving no chance for the opposing goalkeeper.
Ronaldo celebrated the goal with an animated dance, showing his joy for the victory. The fans at the stadium were ecstatic with the player’s achievement. On social media, fans also did not hold back in praising the football star.
With this goal, Ronaldo adds another one to his collection of records. He has become the player with the most goals scored in a single season, surpassing the previous record of another great player. His skill and determination are admired by all.
Ronaldo and his team’s next match will be against one of the main rivals in the championship. Fans are eager to see another brilliant performance from the player. Will he be able to repeat the feat and score another incredible goal? Only time will tell.
Stay tuned for more information about Cristiano Ronaldo’s performance and all the news from the world of football. Don’t miss any moment and follow closely the emotions of the world’s most beloved sport.
