Full FP1 Results: Verstappen goes quickest in Belgium, Piastri P2

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FP1 results Belgian Grand Prix
26 July at 13:45
Last update 26 July at 13:49
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  • Sophia Crothall

The first session at the Belgian Grand Prix is complete, and it was Max Verstappen who set the fastest time. The Red Bull driver set a time of 1:43.372. In second place was last week's race winner Oscar Piastri, with Alex Albon behind in third. 

Max Verstappen set the fastest time during the first free practice session of the weekend. The Dutchman remained at the top of the leaderboard throughout. Unlike Verstappen, Esteban Ocon faced significant issues throughout the session. He was forced into the pits early on, and failed to make it back onto the track after a suspected water leak issue. There are growing reliability issues at Alpine after two consecutive DNFs for his teammate Pierre Gasly. Daniel Ricciardo had an early spin but recovered quickly. 

Overall, the incident-free session was relatively straightforward. Nevertheless, a host of drivers complained over the radio of issues. Fernando Alonso questioned the functioning of his engine, whilst Yuki Tsunoda complained of over and under steer issues at certain corners. Both Mercedes drivers also noted issues, with George Russell saying he had no rear end, and Lewis Hamilton making remarks over bouncing. The FIA also confirmed during the session both Tsunoda and Verstappen would face grid penalties this weekend. 

Full FP1 results at the Belgian Grand Prix