P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Matt Campbell was quickest in the first free practice session of the season for the #5 Porsche Penske 963 as
Following the postponed Prologue, the proceedings officially started for the Qatar 1812km, featuring a 90-minute free practice session at the Losail International Circuit, a new venue for the WEC. Teams headed into preparations for the 10-hour race event scheduled for Saturday 2 March. The Hypercar field, comprising 19 cars, witnessed tight competition as Porsche cars dominated the session. Notable debutante Phil Hanson, switching to Hypercar category, piloted the #38 JOTA after a successful start during the IMSA Endurance Cup. Practice emphasized productive long runs essential for data collection on tire wear and race pace rather than setting fastest lap times. With several red flag periods due to changing track conditions, Porsche ended the session in dominant positions, with Campbell setting the quickest lap in the #5 Porsche Penske 963. AF Corse Ferrari and Porsche Penske cars followed closely. LMGT3 saw spirited driving and track limit warnings, indicating a competitive field. Nico Pino led the LMGT3 pack, closely trailed by AF Corse Ferrari contenders and Aston Martin Vantage AMR. The day will conclude with Free Practice 2 later in the evening at 2.30pm GMT or 5.30pm local time.
