16 LECLERC Charles (mco), Scuderia Ferrari SF-24, action during the Australian Formula 1 Rolex Grand Prix 2024, 3rd stage of the 2024 Formula 1 World Championship, from March 22 to 24, 2024 at the Albert Park Circuit, in Melbourne, Australia – Photo Florent Gooden / DPPI
Charles Leclerc took the lead on the first day, with the Ferrari driver being four tenths faster than Max Verstappen in the Red Bull, who finished second. Leclerc is expected to be the main competitor against the dominant Red Bulls both in qualifying on Saturday and in the race on Sunday.
Carlos Sainz, who is still recovering from his recent appendicitis surgery, had an impressive performance with the third best time, although he was half a second slower than Leclerc. However, once fully recovered, Sainz is also expected to be a strong competitor.
In their team report, Ferrari expressed optimism about their performance on Friday at the Australian Grand Prix. They highlighted the importance of Sainz being fully fit and praised his ability to return to the cockpit just 14 days after surgery. Sainz completed 48 laps without any physical issues and gradually regained his pace on the Albert Park track. The team also noted that both drivers gave positive feedback on the car’s performance, which will need to be confirmed in the upcoming sessions and in the race.
Leclerc shared his thoughts on Friday’s practice, stating that it was a good start and that he felt comfortable in the car from the beginning. He emphasized the need to adapt to the track conditions and anticipate their evolution. Leclerc expressed confidence in the team’s progress and expected fierce competition.
Sainz, who had to sit out the previous race due to his surgery, expressed his satisfaction in completing both sessions comfortably. He acknowledged the challenging weeks leading up to the race, but remained optimistic about his performance in qualifying and the race. Sainz believed the car was in a good position for the weekend and aimed to maximize his potential.
Overall, both Leclerc and Sainz showed promising performances on the first day of the Australian Grand Prix. The Ferrari team expressed confidence in their drivers and the competitiveness of the car, setting high expectations for the upcoming sessions and the race itself.
