P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Taking the long-run averages from Saudi Arabian GP practice at face value shows Red Bull with an even bigger advantage than it enjoyed in the 2024 F1 season opener in Bahrain. But that’s not quite the full picture – none of its closest rivals did comparable programmes
According to the recent Formula 1 practice session in Jeddah, the challenging track posed significant obstacles for drivers, with even Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez struggling with bouncing and handling issues, especially over the kerbs. Despite the challenges, Red Bull appeared to have a substantial advantage in long-run times compared to Bahrain, with Verstappen leading Perez by 0.5 seconds. Ferrari, Mercedes, and McLaren did not complete comparable programs, with Ferrari notably running lower power modes on their power units. Mercedes faced issues with a nervous rear end, resulting in limited running and only seven long-run laps completed between Russell and Hamilton. McLaren opted for a low-key Friday, testing the medium and hard tires, while Williams’ Alex Albon showed promising pace on the hard tire. Aston Martin, with Fernando Alonso setting the fastest time in single-lap runs, seems to be on par with its competitiveness in Bahrain in terms of long-run pace.
