Miami FP1: Max quickest in crucial practice session

Published on 03 May 2024 by Stefan Meens

Max Verstappen clocked the fastest lap time in the first and only practice session of the Miami Grand Prix. During the hour-long session, the reigning world champion mainly focussed on the RB20’s long run pace round the Miami International Autodrome. Nevertheless, Max was able to set the best time in the final minutes of the session. McLaren’s Oscar Piastri was second quickest with Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz in third.

Max, sporting a special livery for the Miami Grand Prix, starts his weekend with a run on the medium Pirellis. He is unable to complete a long run due to the session being red flagged, ten minutes into FP1. Charles Leclerc has spun his Ferrari on the exit of turn sixteen. Initially, a yellow flag appears to suffice, but when it becomes clear that Leclerc’s car is stranded, race control throws a red flag.

A couple of minutes later, the circuit is given the all clear and the session resumes. Perez is the early pace setter, whilst Max continues to gain valuable track time by completing more laps on the medium Pirellis.

At the halfway mark, Perez is quickest ahead of Hamilton, Russell (both Mercedes), Sainz and Ocon (Alpine). Meanwhile, Max is continuing to circle the Miami street circuit on the medium Pirelli tyres, having dropped down the order.

With ten minutes to go, Max bolts on a new set of softs to attempt a flurry of quick laps. In the closing stages, Gasly (Alpine), Sainz, Russell and Perez all occupy P1 for a short amount of time before Max sets a 1:28.595, the quickest lap time of the session.

Contest GP Miami: win a by Max Verstappen signed Verstappen.com Racing cap!

Results first free practice Miami: