Formula 1 News: Verstappen leads Red Bull 1-2 in Practice 1

Red Bull’s Max Verstappen posted the fastest lap during Friday’s first practice session for the 2024 Japanese Grand Prix, with a lap of 1m30.056s.

–by Mark Cipolloni–

The World Champion (pictured above) led the way from teammate Sergio Perez, and the Ferrari of Carlos Sainz Jr.

Sainz was followed by Mercedes pair George Russell and Hamilton and teammate Charles Leclerc – some three-tenths splitting the two Ferrari drivers.

Meanwhile, American Logan Sargeant wadded up his Williams and brought out the red flags, the Suzuka Circuit proving to be too much for him. Williams confirmed the chassis is undamaged, but there is extensive damage to the gearbox and suspension.

Fernando Alonso was the lead Aston Martin driver in seventh, as home favorite Yuki Tsunoda – pushing to build on some impressive displays so far this season – put his RB between the McLarens of Oscar Piastri and Norris in the final top 10 positions.

Verstappen won this race the past two years and started off this year go with a strong showing in his slightly upgraded Red Bull Honda RB20.

2024 Japanese GP Practice 1 Results