Lando Norris topped FP2 in Barcelona, suggesting a return to form for McLaren after Monaco, thanks partly to a new front wing. However, the true pecking order remains murky. While McLaren's single-lap pace impressed, Norris reported car vibrations, and their long-run performance appears to trail rivals. Mercedes, with George Russell, showed strong long-run potential on medium tires, surprising many. Ferrari also demonstrated encouraging race pace after correcting for outlier laps. Red Bull, surprisingly off the pace in single-lap qualifying simulations, was closer on long runs despite admitting balance and grip issues. The softer Pirelli compounds and unusually low grip across the circuit mean tire degradation is the weekend's defining challenge. Keeping rubber alive for full race stints will be paramount, making Sunday's strategy a crucial test of car and driver.
Read the full story at The RaceWHAT'S CONFUSING LONG-RUN ORDER AT F1'S BARCELONA GP
Lando Norris topped FP2 in Barcelona, suggesting a return to form for McLaren after Monaco, thanks partly to a new front wing. However, the true pecking order remains murky. While McLaren's single-lap pace impressed, Norris reported car vibrations, and their long-run performance appears to trail rivals. Mercedes, with George Russell, showed strong long-run potential on medium tires, surprising many. Ferrari also demonstrated encouraging race pace after correcting for outlier laps. Red Bull, surprisingly off the pace in single-lap qualifying simulations, was closer on long runs despite admitting balance and grip issues. The softer Pirelli compounds and unusually low grip across the circuit mean tire degradation is the weekend's defining challenge. Keeping rubber alive for full race stints will be paramount, making Sunday's strategy a crucial test of car and driver.
