Formula 1: Sainz still impresses during testing, Verstappen struggles

Spaniard Carlos Sainz (Ferrari) achieved the best time in the 3rd and final free practice session of the Singapore Grand Prix in Formula 1, Saturday on the Marina Bay street circuit where championship leader Max Verstappen appeared in difficulty with his Red Bull.

Already the fastest in free practice 2 on Friday ahead of his teammate Charles Leclerc, Sainz did it again on Saturday by keeping his Ferrari at the top of the timesheet.

In the heat of Singapore - where the rain arrived earlier in the day - this time he beat the British George Russell (Mercedes) and Lando Norris (McLaren).

Behind, Max Verstappen, 4th best time in this last test session before qualifying run at night in Singapore, complained about the behavior of his Red Bull on the track, particularly during gear changes.

Already the day before, the reigning double world champion had shown himself behind during the first tests, explaining that he had difficulties with the balance of his RB19.

Leclerc, author of pole position last year in the streets of the city-state completes the Top 5, ahead of the Mercedes of Lewis Hamilton, 6th.

On the tough Friday, the French drivers from Alpine, Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly took 12th and 15th places.

While lizards disrupted Free Practice 1 on Friday, Saturday's session took place without disruption.

Qualifying is scheduled for 9:00 p.m. local time (3:00 p.m. French). Knowing that it is difficult to overtake in the race, the positions on the grid and the quality of the starts are likely to be crucial at the start of the race on Sunday at 2:00 p.m. French).