Belgian F1 GP 2020: Free Practice Results

The 2020 Belgian Grand Prix kicked off with Friday's Free Practice 1 and 2 sessions. These sessions revealed some of the strengths and weaknesses of each team, giving a rough idea of ​​how they might perform in qualifying and the race. However, it remains to be seen when everyone will unleash their full potential, as they often hold back a few tenths of a second or are still testing different components. In any case, Mercedes will once again be very strong here, as will Red Bull.

In addition to what happened on the track, some details related to F1 and motorsport have also emerged. For example, F2 driver Ticktum initially tested positive for Covid-19, although the test was ultimately inconclusive and came back negative. Formula 1 is also concerned, as Sergio Pérez may not be the only driver affected this season. And if it affects those fighting for the championship, it could completely turn the championship on its head…

Another piece of news that has been officially announced concerns Formula 1 , specifically one of its races. It's the Sakhir Grand Prix, the second race to be held at the Bahrain circuit in this atypical calendar due to the pandemic. This race will take place at night, meaning there will be another night race, which is a favorite among many fans. Furthermore, it will be run on the outer circuit of Bahrain. It is estimated that lap times will be under 60 seconds, meaning lap times under a minute, since instead of using the usual 5.41 km circuit, they will use a 3.5 km one. Things could get very close under these circumstances…

Returning to free practice, there's not much to highlight, really. Except that Mercedes secured a one-two finish in the first session, flexing their muscles at this circuit. But Red Bull also topped the timesheets in the second free practice. Remember that despite their engine, Red Bull has performed very well at circuits like Spa and Monza by significantly reducing downforce on the wing. So they could be rivals this weekend, and who knows, they might even spring a surprise…

Ferrari is the other side of the coin. It's well known they had the most powerful engine last year, but after FIA inspections following suspicions from other teams, they've lost a lot this year. Their engine is showing weakness, and they've struggled considerably here. Those in Maranello aren't expecting good results at this track, and they'll have to do the best they can with what they have. They've been far behind.

On the other hand, McLaren doesn't seem to be doing too badly. It was a bit uncertain how they would perform on this circuit, but it doesn't appear to be extremely demanding, or so it seems. Incidentally, one team brought some new technical developments to the bargeboards, which bear a Spanish signature, specifically from Iván Roldán from Málaga. The other teams also tested new features on their cars, as well as flatter wing configurations to adapt to a low-downforce circuit like this one.

Free practice results 1

Free practice results 2

Free Practice 3 and qualifying are just around the corner , with more action and news to report. Qualifying will confirm Ferrari's collapse or whether Red Bull can truly be a contender.