Not Charles Leclerc or Max Verstappen, but George Russell finished the second free practice session first. Finally another boost for the troubled Mercedes, although it remains to be seen to what extent conclusions can be drawn from this.
A very short distance behind Russell, Sergio Perez finished second in his Red Bull. Unlike Russell, the Mexican set his fastest time on the slower medium tire. Championship leader Leclerc finished third. World champion Verstappen took it relatively easy. He will start from pole during the sprint race later today, but now finished seventh.