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Perez tops session as FP2 foreshadows intense qualifying duel in Baku
Charles Leclerc finished as the fastest driver in the second free practice session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. But the result created tension for qualifying, with three different constructors in the top three places. Leclerc, Sergio Perez and Lewis Hamilton were just separated by 0.066 seconds. Lando Norris didn't get to complete his fastest lap after being impeded by Pierre Gasly.
How the second free practice session unfolded
Equipped with upgrades, Max Verstappen set the fastest time in FP1 but could only finish sixth in the second free practice session. On this occasion, Perez got the better of his teammate. The Mexican is historically the best driver in Baku's history and the only driver to win more than once at the venue. Lewis Hamilton rounded out the top three. His teammate, George Russell, completed a different run plan and did his qualifying sim later in the session. He finished in ninth.
There was a space in the top ten for both Haas drivers, with Ollie Bearman impressing his future Haas team boss. Carlos Sainz finished 4th, with Oscar Piastri in 5th. Lance Stroll also had a place in the top ten.
Lando Norris was on a fast lap and had an uncomfortable moment. The British driver was pushing hard and nearly collided with Pierre Gasly, who didn't get out of the way to let Norris through. The Frenchman later reported on his team radio that he was experiencing problems with the battery. Sergio Perez was also impeded later in. the session and waved his arms around furiously.
Verstappen keeps his Red Bull out of the wall
For Red Bull Racing, the Grand Prix weekend in Azerbaijan looks better than in Monza so far, but Verstappen did not have a problem-free second free practice. The Dutchman went off the track twice and reported visibility problems due to the setting sun. He also lost the back of his RB20, but he said that he did not experience too much hindrance.
Verstappen had a moment where he just managed to keep his F1 car out of the wall. The Red Bull driver shot straight ahead and almost hit the wall, but was able to avoid a collision and continue on his way. He reported to Gianpiero Lambiase on the board radio that everything seemed to be fine.