The third practice of the Spanish GP was run under the scorching Catalan sun.
Valtteri Bottas received an intact training lesson on the Catalan Motorway. AOP
Valtteri Bottas Friday went to ruins behind the engine problems. The Finn had to grab a new power unit for his Alfa Romeo, and practically lost half of the laps of the first day of driving.
That’s why Bottas was one of the first to run on the track during Saturday’s practice class. Team Manager Fred Vasseurin for relief, however, Bottas was immediately at a competitive pace.
Bottas missed the top driver by just over a second Charles Leclercin ride. Leclerc will face a serious time trial later on Saturday if he wants to conquer the pole position on the Catalan motorway. Max Verstappen, George Russell, Lewis Hamilton, Carlos Sainz and Checo Pérez were all less than half a second from Monaco’s best quote.
The mood of the Mercedes drivers in particular looks very strong compared to the toddler of the early season.
Bottas was the ninth fastest in time, so he is clearly aiming for the final stage of the time trial.
The heatwave plaguing Spain makes time driving a truly sweaty experience. The air temperature on the Montmeló line is well over 30 degrees.
The time trial, which starts at 5 pm, can be watched on VSport channels and on Elisa Viihde Viaplay’s service.