Complete results FP3 in Spain | Leclerc fastest, Mercedes catching up well

The third free practice for the Spanish Grand Prix has just ended and once again Charles Leclerc was the fastest. The Monegasque drove a similar time as yesterday, but where Verstappen then managed to set the fifth time (FP2), he now set the second time. Perez on the other hand was a bit disappointing with a sixth time and the same goes for Sainz, who came no further than the fifth time.

Mercedes is in good shape

The updates Mercedes has brought seem to be working out well, as judging by the third free practice session, both George Russell and Lewis Hamilton were very strong. Both drivers managed to finish in the top five. Russell set the third time and Hamilton the fourth time. Carlos Sainz came no further than the fifth time and Perez is somewhat disappointing with the sixth time.

The difference between the first six drivers is only half a second and although it was of course still free practice, that promises something for qualifying. Because the key question is whether Mercedes can maintain the good performance. If so, they will become a factor that Ferrari and Red Bull Racing will really have to take into account.

No time for Gasly

Pierre Gasly wanted to go on track quite early in practice, but due to an engine problem he had to abort his session. He was the only one who did not manage to set a time. Mick Schumacher did go on track, but he too had to interrupt his session due to non-functioning rear brakes, one of which caught fire causing damage.

Finally, it was once again Kevin Magnussen and Valtteri Bottas who came out well in the free practice session. The Dane set the eighth time and the Finn a good ninth time. Lando Norris came no further than the seventh time and the top ten is completed by Esteban Ocon.

Full results of the third free practice below:

How the final practice session played out

Qualifying: #SpanishGP #F1 pic.twitter.com/0wf8nnXttK

— Formula 1 (@F1) May 21, 2022