Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2024 first practice session sets new benchmarks

Doha, Qatar: Lusail International Circuit (LIC) roared to life on Friday, November 29, as the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2024 kicked off...

Doha, Qatar: Lusail International Circuit (LIC) roared to life on Friday, November 29, as the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2024 kicked off with an action-packed schedule featuring practice sessions and the electrifying Sprint qualifying, setting the stage for an unforgettable weekend of motorsport excellence.

The day commenced with the Porsche Carrera Cup Middle East practice session, followed by an exciting lineup of support practice sessions including F1 Academy and FIA Formula 2 Championship, showcasing the next generation of racing talent. The first practice session for Formula 1 saw teams and drivers familiarizing themselves with the state-of-the-art 5.38km circuit, which features 16 fast-flowing corners on the Lusail tarmac. 

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc demonstrated exceptional pace by posting a time of 1:21.953, finishing first during the first practice session. This was part of a broader display of improved performance, with the top 16 drivers all surpassing last year's pole position time of 1:23.778, highlighting the significant evolution in car development. This unprecedented speed also meant that the top four drivers all broke the previous Formula 1 lap record at LIC. Even Haas F1 Team's Kevin Magnussen, placing 16th, posted a time of 1:23.715, faster than the 2023 pole position – a testament to the remarkable pace shown throughout the field and the circuit's optimized conditions following its comprehensive upgrades.

The F1 Academy, making its debut at one of only six circuits selected to host the series this year, demonstrated the championship’s commitment to nurturing and propelling young female drivers towards higher echelons of competition. The two practice sessions today highlighted the impressive skill and determination of these rising stars.