First Free Practice Results 2024 Chinese F1 Grand Prix

Event: Chinese Grand Prix
Track: Shanghai International Circuit

Weather: 23.4°C sunny & dry
Tarmac: 39.8°C dry
Humidity: 22.3%
Wind: 5.0 km//h South

First Practice Report

The Formula 1 circus returned to Shanghai this weekend for the fifth round of the 2024 season, marking a thrilling Sprint weekend filled with surprises and strategic gambles. Lance Stroll emerged as a surprise frontrunner in the first practice session, putting Aston Martin at the top of the timesheets, a feat not seen in recent races.

The session kicked off under overcast skies, with teams and drivers adjusting to the unique demands of the Shanghai International Circuit—a track known for its long straights and challenging corners. The buzz was palpable as the only practice session commenced, giving teams a mere hour to fine-tune their setups ahead of Sprint Qualifying.

Lance Stroll's performance was particularly noteworthy. The Canadian clocked a fastest lap of 1m 36.302s, outpacing McLaren's rookie Oscar Piastri by 0.327 seconds. Reigning champion Max Verstappen secured the third fastest time, hinting at a potentially fierce competition in the later stages. However, it wasn't all smooth sailing; the session was briefly red-flagged due to a trackside fire, adding pressure by cutting valuable track time.

Halfway the session the top 10 order was: 1. Leclerc 1:38.130 (S), 2. Sainz +0.252 (S), 3. Verstappen +0.368 (M), 4. Pérez +0.436 (M), 5. Hulkenberg +0.750 (M), 6. Norris +1.003 (H), 7. Stroll +1.284 (H), 8. Alonso +1.378 (H), 9. Zhou +1.417 (M), 10. Ocon +1.559 (S).

As the Sprint Qualifying loomed, teams strategized over tire choices and fuel loads, making for a fascinating build-up. The session promised a condensed format with mandatory tire compounds, adding an extra layer of challenge for the teams and drivers.

During the Sprint Qualifying, the track conditions and strategic calls played a pivotal role. Mercedes and Ferrari seemed to wrestle with their setups, with both teams appearing to conserve their softer tires for what was expected to be a climactic Sprint race. Meanwhile, Red Bull's Sergio Perez showed promising pace but had to settle behind his teammate after a minor lock-up on his flying lap compromised his potential.

The qualifying results set the stage for an intriguing Sprint race, with Stroll looking to convert his practice dominance into a solid race performance. The actual Sprint race delivered excitement and strategic intrigue, with drivers pushing hard on the mandated tire compounds.

In the main Grand Prix, tire management and strategy variations came into play. Teams like Ferrari, who had been kinder to their tires, found themselves battling not just against each other but also managing the wear and tear on a circuit that's notoriously tough on rubber.

As the checkered flag waved, the Grand Prix concluded with dramatic fights throughout the field, showcasing the strategic depth and racing prowess that Formula 1 fans cherish. The Shanghai weekend not only provided a spectacle of speed and strategy but also set a compelling narrative for the upcoming races in the 2024 season.

With the dust settled, teams and drivers now look forward to the next round, taking valuable lessons and points from a weekend that once again proved Formula 1's ability to deliver thrilling sports action and strategic depth. The championship battle continues to heat up, promising more excitement as the season progresses.

The quickest sector times were:

• Sector 1: 24.759 sec by Lando Norris - McLaren MCL38.
• Sector 2: 28.534 sec by Lance Stroll - Aston Martin AMR24.
• Sector 3: 42.536 sec by Sergio Pérez - Red Bull RB20.

The fastest lap time in last FP1 (2019) was driven by Sebastian Vettel with a Ferrari. He drove a 1:33,911, which was almost 2.5 sec. quicker than today's lap time.

FP1 Lap Times 2024 Chinese GP

✅ Check out our 2024 Chinese Formula 1 Grand Prix preview.

✅ Check out more posts with related topics: