Belgian Grand Prix – Free Practice 3: Sergio Perez takes the lead

Last preparations before the qualifications this afternoon, the third free practice session of the Belgium Grand Prix was a bit livelier than the previous two. It was interrupted by a red flag caused by Charles Leclerc going off into the gravel. The damages didn’t seem to be significant.

Under a cloudy and menacing sky, Williams and Alfa Romeo showed themselves to be rather comfortable throughout the session. Quick in the straight lines, Alexander Albon played for a long time with the Red Bulls and the Ferraris in the spotlight, while Valtteri Bottas positioned himself just behind. But it was indeed Red Bull that dominated the session.

RED FLAG

Leclerc into the gravel trap 😮

He bumps the barriers but looks like there’s no major damage done #BelgianGP #F1 pic.twitter.com/LFc6HHvmNQ

— Formula 1 (@F1) August 27, 2022

Sergio Perez achieved the best time with 1’45’047, ahead of his teammate Max Verstappen (+0.137″) and Carlos Sainz (+0.777″). Behind, a huge gap formed, with Lando Norris (+0.918″) and Fernando Alonso (+1’014″). Charles Leclerc couldn’t do better than a 7th position.

French people struggling

The French did not have a good session. Pierre Gasly finished with the 10th fastest time and Esteban Ocon still managed to finish in 9th place. Lewis Hamilton continued to experience some difficulties with his Mercedes. The seven-time world champion finished 12th, 1.722 seconds behind Sergio Perez.

It is worth noting that six drivers, including Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen, will start at the back of the grid. They will then have to compete against each other during the qualifying session this afternoon.

The ranking of the third free practice session