Formula 1: Max Verstappen dominates free practice 2 in Japan News

Dutchman Max Verstappen (Red Bull) set the best time in the 2nd free practice session for the Japanese Grand Prix, 16th round of the Formula 1 World Championship, Friday at the Suzuka circuit. Already the fastest in the morning session (in 1 min 31 sec 647/1000 ahead of Sainz and Norris) in oppressive heat, the reigning double world champion increased his time to 1 min 30 sec 688/1000 in the afternoon.

At the end of this last session of the day, Verstappen was ahead of the Ferrari of Monegasque Charles Leclerc and the McLaren of Lando Norris, in great form so far on the famous Suzuka track. In the morning, the Briton had already climbed to this place during the first tests.

The other Ferrari, that of the Spaniard Carlos Sainz and the Mercedes of the Briton George Russell complete the Top 5.

The session was shortened by an exit from the track by Pierre Gasly (Alpine) which caused the deployment of a red flag meaning the interruption and end of practice - with less than three minutes remaining. The Frenchman hit a wall at low speed, damaging the left front of his car. His teammate and compatriot Esteban Ocon finished 12th.

A third and final free practice session is scheduled for Saturday from 4:30 a.m. to 5:30 a.m. in order to perfect the settings of the cars before qualifying which will begin at 8:00 a.m.

2nd free practice session:

Max Verstappen (NED/Red Bull) 1:30.688 (19 tours)

Charles Leclerc (MON/Ferrari) 1:31.008 (23)

Lando Norris (GBR/McLaren-Mercedes) 1:31.152 (22)

Carlos Sainz Jr (ESP/Ferrari) 1:31.237 (22)

George Russell (GBR/Mercedes) 1:31.328 (22)

Fernando Alonso (ESP/Aston Martin-Mercedes) 1:31.492 (22)

Alexander Albon (THA/Williams-Mercedes) 1:31.555 (23)

Oscar Piastri (AUS/McLaren-Mercedes) 1:31.662 (22)

Sergio Pérez (MEX/Red Bull) 1:31.710 (24)

Valtteri Bottas (FIN/Alfa Romeo-Ferrari) 1:31.739 (22)

Lance Stroll (CAN/Aston Martin-Mercedes) 1:31.771 (22)