Friday Practice Summary: F1 Austrian Grand Prix
Red Bull Ring, Austria – Both Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc reported limited enhancements in their competitiveness following an understated Friday at the Austrian Grand Prix. Ferrari debuted a fully revised floor design aimed at improving aerodynamic load through various cornering speeds. Despite these upgrades, expectations for significant gains were tempered.
Ferrari’s modifications included adjustments to the body, edges, and floor wing, along with a redesigned diffuser. However, the initial results from Free Practice 2 (FP2) showed Leclerc trailing the session leader, Lando Norris, by six-tenths, with Hamilton another three-tenths behind him. Notably, Leclerc’s performance was hampered by lower cornering speeds at critical points on the circuit, specifically the fast Turn 6 and Turn 7.
Both drivers faced challenges during their runs; Leclerc missed FP1 for rookie Dino Beganovic, while Hamilton experienced gearbox issues that restricted his long runs. Leclerc stated, “FP1 didn’t really compromise FP2… there’s quite a bit of work to be done for tomorrow. It doesn’t feel like the performance is quite there yet.” He noted that while the new floor met expected aerodynamics figures, feeling a difference on-track was difficult without prior reference data.
Hamilton echoed these sentiments, citing the day’s performance as "not spectacular." He acknowledged the team’s effort in getting his car ready for FP2 after the gearbox problem: “They did a great job changing the gearbox… but I think we won’t be at the front.”
As the teams prepare for qualifying, both Ferrari drivers aim to address their pace issues to improve their starting positions and competitive stance in the race.
