Mercedes ahead of Verstappen in second practice at Suzuka

Created: 07/10/2022, 09:50

The Dutch Red Bull driver Max Verstappen entering the pits.

© Eugene Hoshiko/AP/dpa

Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen had to admit defeat to Mercedes drivers George Russell and Lewis Hamilton in practice before the Japanese Grand Prix.

Suzuka - In the rainy Suzuka, Russell set the fastest time of 1:41.935 minutes ahead of his British compatriot Hamilton.

The 25-year-old Dutchman Verstappen was 0.851 seconds behind Russell.

Former world champion Sebastian Vettel only managed 15th place in his Aston Martin in difficult conditions.

Mick Schumacher was unable to compete after his accident in the first practice session.

The 23-year-old flew off the track on his slow-down lap and destroyed his Haas racing car with a violent impact on the boundary.

The front wheel suspension, the rims, the underbody and the front wing of his car were sometimes badly damaged.

The mechanics quickly started repairs in the garage but didn't make it to the start of the second practice session.

If Verstappen wins on Sunday (7 a.m. / Sky) in the expected wet conditions and also turns the fastest race lap, he will make the successful title defense perfect early on.

It can also achieve its second title in other constellations, Verstappen only has to score eight points more than Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc and six more than Sergio Perez in the second Red Bull.

Before the 18th of 22 rounds of the season, Verstappen leads Leclerc with 104 points.

After the Grand Prix, the Dutchman would need a lead of 112 points.

Otherwise the decision will be postponed to the next race in the USA.

dpa