The Turkish Grand Prix kicked off on Friday with the first two free practices. One day later the third free practice session is scheduled as usual. It is the last chance for Mercedes and Red Bull Racing to improve the car in order to qualify.
LIVEBLOG | Third free practice for the 2021 Turkish Grand Prix
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Verstappen concludes: 'Today was just not good'
The German racing team was visibly better than Red Bull on the first day of the race weekend. Lewis Hamilton set the fastest time twice, while his rival Max Verstappen finished second and fifth respectively. There's no need to panic for the Dutchman though, as his team worked through the night to make improvements to his car.
For Hamilton, it is extra important that he has a good starting position. The British driver had his combustion engine replaced, which means he will get a grid penalty of ten places. If the driver manages to get pole position the damage will be limited. Both Hamilton and Verstappen will use the third free practice to prepare for qualifying.
Charles Leclerc made an excellent impression with his Ferrari on Friday. The driver achieved the third and second fastest times, showing that the Italian team is well capable of competing this weekend.