Suzuka GP, free practice: Red Bull-Ferrari duel before the rain

Max Verstappen ahead of everyone on the first day of free practice ahead of the Japanese Formula 1 GP, which takes place on Sunday in Suzuka. The Dutch Red Bull driver, reigning world champion, lapped in 1'30''056 in the first session, setting the best time of the day ahead of his teammate, the Mexican Sergio Perez (1'30''237). Third time for the Ferrari of the Spaniard Carlos Sainz (1'30''269), followed by the Mercedes of the British George Russell (1'30''530) and Lewis Hamilton (1'30''543). Sixth position for the Monegasque Charles Leclerc (1'30''558), at the wheel of the other Ferrari. The rain affected the second free practice session, with a track too wet for the slick tires but probably not wet enough for a systematic use of the intermediates. Australian Oscar Piastri, with McLaren, lapped in 1'34''725 in the final minutes of testing, edging out half a second from Hamilton's Mercedes. Leclerc and Sainz limited themselves to 'tasting' the asphalt like other riders. Verstappen remained in the pits, like Russell. Tomorrow, at 4.30 Italian time, third and final free practice session. From 8am, qualifying begins which will define the starting grid for the GP, scheduled for Sunday 7 April at 7am Italian time.