F1 News
Italian GP: Friday Summary - Leclerc's practice double but Mercedes look strong
Going into the Italian Grand Prix weekend and you would've expected Ferrari to be in control again. But that's not necessarily the case as Mercedes demonstrated good single-lap pace during FP2. Charles Leclerc topped both sessions, but he has Lewis Hamilton breathing down his neck to prevent the man from Monaco winning back-to-back races.
What happened in FP1 and FP2?
Free practice 1 was a bit of a nothing session as the rain kept the cars in the garage for the majority of the 90 minutes. The first chicane caused plenty of spins and moments for virtually everyone on the grid. Leclerc managed to post a 1:27.905. Carlos Sainz took P2 while his teammate Lando Norris rounded out the top three places. Hamilton came 4th.
By the start of FP2, the track had dried out and the cars were keen to get around the Monza circuit. Ferrari started their qualifying sims first and Leclerc led the way, followed closely by Sebastian Vettel. But Mercedes wanted to spoil the party. Valtteri Bottas generated a tow for Hamilton who used the advantage. The British driver produced a storming lap and came less than a tenth short of Leclerc's time. In slightly wet conditions.
New Honda engine is "noticeably" better according to Helmut Marko
Helmut Marko is confident once again and believes the Honda spec 4 engine is working as expected. The Red Bull team advisor also believes a podium for Max Verstappen is guaranteed as long as he can get through the first few laps. That's a bold prediction considering Verstappen is starting from the back of the grid due to the engine penalty.
Alex Albon wears a new helmet for the weekend
Alex Albon is still new to the Red Bull team. This weekend, the team have asked Albon to wear a new Arai Helmet because it is better suited aerodynamically. His old helmet that he used at Toro Rosso from the Bell brand.
Michael Masi scoops praise from team bosses
Masi, Formula 1's race director has now been in his role for six months. Masi has faced many challenges in his new role after unexpectedly taking over from Charlie Whiting. During the team boss press conference, Mattia Binotto Claire Williams and Franz Tost offered their praise.