formula 1
Verstappen set the best time in the last training session in Japan
Red Bull driver Max Verstappen also shows his strength in Suzuka. photo
© Hiro Komae/AP/dpa
Max Verstappen gains confidence for qualifying for the Japanese Grand Prix. In Suzuka, the Formula 1 world champion cannot be beaten even in the final training session.
Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen set the fastest lap in the final third training session before the Japanese Grand Prix.
In Suzuka, the 26-year-old Dutchman in the Red Bull won in 1:29.563 minutes, 0.269 seconds ahead of his teammate Sergio Peréz from Mexico.
Briton George Russell took third place in a Mercedes, 0.355 seconds behind. Nico Hülkenberg drove his Haas racing car to 16th place on the traditional track. Yesterday the wet track prevented a regular second training session, but shortly before today’s qualification the conditions were dry again in sunshine.
Before the fourth round of the season, Verstappen leads the championship standings with 51 points, just ahead of Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc (47) and Peréz (46). Verstappen did not finish in the last race in Australia due to a technical defect, but is once again the big favorite in Japan. He had won the Grand Prix in each of the past two years.