The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix kicked off with a bang. Pierre Gasly, driving for Alpine, led the pack in the first practice session. This was a surprise to many, as McLaren’s Lando Norris and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc followed closely behind. The weather was tough, with high heat and humidity making conditions challenging for the drivers and their cars.

The session began at 1630 local time. Esteban Ocon from Haas was the first to hit the track. Most drivers chose the medium tires for their initial laps, which is a common strategy to get a feel for the circuit. The Jeddah Corniche Circuit is known for its demanding layout, so every second counts.

Early on, there were some tense moments. Gasly and Lewis Hamilton had close calls with the walls, reminding everyone that even the smallest mistake can be costly. Oscar Piastri, who had just won the previous race in Bahrain, faced a different problem. His drink system in the helmet malfunctioned, causing a leak. This might seem minor, but in a sport where every detail matters, it can be a big deal.

Ollie Bearman, driving for Haas, had a lock-up on his return to the track where he made his F1 debut for Ferrari last year. Piastri also reported a minor incident, mentioning that he had brushed against a wall. These small issues can add up, affecting a driver’s confidence and performance.

The first practice session is always about finding the right setup and getting comfortable with the track. For Gasly, leading the timesheets was a strong start. But in Formula 1, one practice session doesn’t define the weekend. The real test will come in the qualifying rounds and the race itself. Every driver will be pushing hard, looking for that edge to come out on top.

The Unexpected Start in Saudi Arabia

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