Carlos Sainz emerged as the fastest driver during the only practice session for the Brazilian Grand Prix. Both Ferrari cars, driven by Sainz and Charles Leclerc, showcased their speed at the top. Surprisingly, Max Verstappen failed to make it to the top ten, suggesting that Red Bull, McLaren, and Mercedes might be hiding their true potential.
A truly special place to go racing #F1 #BrazilGP pic.twitter.com/AOuMjnxnG4
— Formula 1 (@F1) November 3, 2023
The F1 drivers found themselves racing at Interlagos for the Brazilian Grand Prix right after the race weekend in Austin, making it the third race in three weeks. This race concludes the ‘triple-header’ and features a sprint format for the weekend.
FP1 GREEN LIGHT
The 2023 Sao Paulo Grand Prix weekend is GOOOO! #F1 #BrazilGP pic.twitter.com/f9TvsOq791
— Formula 1 (@F1) November 3, 2023
With just one practice session available on Friday before the Sunday race, drivers wasted no time in getting on the track to optimize their testing and set up the car for the rest of the weekend.
Practice makes perfect…
Carlos Sainz exploring the limits #F1 #BrazilGP pic.twitter.com/asNegbubpv
— Formula 1 (@F1) November 3, 2023
The drivers immediately pushed the limits of both their cars and the circuit, leading to some mistakes. However, these errors were deemed necessary in order to prepare for the remainder of the race weekend.
Contact between Hulkenberg and Norris
Stewards might want a word after the session #F1 #BrazilGP pic.twitter.com/r7bxu0r7g5
— Formula 1 (@F1) November 3, 2023
During the practice session, a collision occurred between Nico Hulkenberg and Lando Norris, which will be reviewed by the stewards to determine if any penalties will be imposed.
Soft tyre time!
Both @Carlossainz55 & @Charles_Leclerc are back on track #BrazilGP #F1 pic.twitter.com/1gOEXnQSOE
— Scuderia Ferrari (@ScuderiaFerrari) November 3, 2023
Ultimately, Ferrari secured the top two positions at the end of the practice session. Carlos Sainz recorded the fastest lap, followed by his teammate Charles Leclerc. George Russell from Mercedes completed the top three, while Max Verstappen’s absence from the top ten raised eyebrows.
This suggests that Verstappen, Red Bull, and other teams have not yet revealed their true pace. Qualifying for the Sunday race will take place later today, ending the “hide and seek” game.