P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Lando Norris beat George Russell to top spot for the sole practice session at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix ahead of Sprint qualifying later today. The performance runs on the soft-compound tire were sa…
Lando Norris outpaced George Russell in the practice session at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix before the Sprint qualifying later today. The soft-compound tire runs were saved towards the end with most of the hour dedicated to long running on the medium tire. However, the medium compound will be used for the initial two segments of Sprint qualifying. Oliver Bearman, stepping in for an unwell Kevin Magnussen, secured the third spot for Haas. Norris will race in the Sprint and face the short race tomorrow, with decisions about Magnussen’s return being made after monitoring his recovery. Ferrari drivers Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz were sixth and seventh, trailing almost half a second behind the pace. Max Verstappen, despite equipping a new engine and incurring a grid penalty, is free to start the Sprint after qualifying today, following his 15th position due to incomplete flying lap on soft tires. Lewis Hamilton faced back pain after a rough ride in his Mercedes, finishing 16th. Sergio Perez, who was granted a chassis change, landed in 19th place, aiming to improve after his recent struggles. Zhou Guanyu finished last for Sauber, more than a second behind the pack.
