Max Verstappen started the Grand Prix weekend in Austria on Friday with the second fastest time in the first free practice. George Russell was the fastest at the Red Bull Ring.
The 27-year-old Verstappen conceded six hundredths to Russell, who won the Canadian Grand Prix two weeks ago, with 1:06.607. Oscar Piastri finished third and Alex Dunne, who was allowed to take over Lando Norris’ seat in the first practice, finished a fine fourth. Pierre Gasly completed the top five.
Lewis Hamilton struggled with gearbox problems in his Ferrari. The Brit spent a long time inside. He eventually clocked the ninth time, behind Gabriel Bortoleto (sixth), Alexander Albon (seventh) and Carlos Sainz (eighth). The training went without incidents.
Verstappen drove an apparently flawless session. The Red Bull driver has to do without his regular race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase this weekend. Verstappen’s loyal right-hand man is absent due to private circumstances.
Verstappen hopes to reduce the gap to Piastri and Norris this weekend at the Red Bull Ring, which is remarkably not sold out. Red Bull has implemented a significant number of updates to Verstappen’s car. The four-time world champion drives with, among other things, a modified floor.
The Grand Prix weekend in Austria will continue on Friday at 5:00 PM with the second free practice. Qualification is at 4:00 PM on Saturday and the race starts at 3:00 PM on Sunday.
