Leclerc went around in 1,18,445. Surprisingly, the second time was for McLaren driver Lando Norris, more than two tenths of Leclerc. His Ferrari teammate Carlos Sainz and Verstappen followed just behind. Daniel Ricciardo set the fifth fastest time, indicating that McLaren was on the right track. Verstappen’s companion Sergio Pérez was not involved, just like in the first training. The same was true for the Mercedes team.
Exactly how representative the times are, remains to be seen. It was very hot in Budapest on Friday, but it will rain heavily on Saturday. There is a good chance of a dry race on Sunday, but the temperatures are also lower than during Friday’s training sessions. Verstappen had already expected Ferrari to have the upper hand over one lap, especially on a track like the Hungaroring. A wet qualification may be in favor of the Dutchman.
long run
Ferrari also looked strong in the long run during the second free practice. Like Verstappen, Leclerc drove that race simulation on the medium tire and was faster than the Dutchman.
“Obviously we still have some work to do. Ferrari is a bit ahead of us, as expected,” said Verstappen. “It will be difficult to beat them. We will try what we can to close the gap. We can’t handle Ferrari in dry conditions, but we’ll see what the weather brings us on Saturday.”
VIDEO: Reporter Erik van Haren discusses the difference between Max Verstappen and his biggest challenger Charles Leclerc.