Lando Norris captivates with the fastest lap time after a dramatic red-flag episode.
- Charles Leclerc’s high-speed crash at Turn 4 causes a significant delay in FP2.
- Despite the interruption, Norris outpaces Max Verstappen with a remarkable lap.
- Carlos Sainz, Sergio Perez, and George Russell complete the top five after FP2 resumed.
- Charles Leclerc assures everyone he is unhurt despite the crash, adding relief to the excitement.
In the sweltering conditions of the Hungarian Grand Prix’s second practice session, Lando Norris emerged as the standout performer amidst a heated competition. His remarkable pace not only placed him at the top but also highlighted McLaren’s potential as the race weekend unfolds. This session, however, is best remembered for the unexpected drama that unfolded on the track.
A significant part of the session was interrupted when Charles Leclerc lost control of his car at the high-speed Turn 4. Leclerc’s Ferrari spun multiple times before striking the barriers, triggering a red flag as marshals hurried to repair the damage. Fortunately, the Ferrari driver emerged unharmed and was able to walk back to his pit, providing reassurance to the fans and teams who were initially concerned about his well-being.
The delay allowed time for the teams to reassess their strategies. As soon as the session resumed, drivers switched to soft tires, seeking quick times in the limited time available. Norris capitalized on this opportunity, setting a blistering pace with a 1:17.788 lap, finishing ahead of Verstappen by two-tenths of a second. Meanwhile, Carlos Sainz, Sergio Perez, and George Russell showed consistency by securing their spots in the top five, underlining their competitive edge.
As the session unfolded, Zhou Guanyu narrowly avoided adding to the drama by spinning out in his Sauber at the same notorious Turn 4. This incident, however, did not result in any further interruptions, allowing Norris to maintain his lead as the session transitioned to race simulations.
Ultimately, the Hungarian GP’s second practice session delivered a mix of high-speed thrills and tense moments, with Norris’s impressive performance serving as the highlight of a day marked by recovery and rivalry.
Lando Norris’s triumph amid FP2’s challenges sets an exciting tone for the rest of the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend.
