Japanese GP: Piastri fastest in (reduced) free 2

The second free practice session decidedly fragmented in Suzuka, home of the Japanese GP, the third round of the F1 World Championship. Due to the many red flags that affected Free Practice 2 (terrible accident occurred to Doohan), few laps on track for all the single-seaters.

As happened in free practice 1, McLaren was the absolute protagonist. Best time of the session for Piastri (1’28″114 his best time), ahead of teammate Norris (first in free practice 1). The two McLarens were the only ones to set times below the track record.

In difficulty for Ferrari. Hamilton placed fourth. Only seventh was Leclerc. Both Rosse lapped “only” 14 laps, due precisely to the many red flag stops. Of note was Hadjar’s excellent third place. Antonelli did not particularly shine, placing his Mercedes 16th overall.

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Having turned very little in free practice, all the teams will have to try to find effective solutions ahead of official qualifying.