Friday long-run data points to Verstappen edge at Sepang
Friday running at Sepang suggested a close and competitive weekend. Based on FP2 long-run analysis, Max Verstappen appeared quickest after accounting for tyre compounds and stint lengths, with George Russell and Charles Leclerc next closest.
Multiple outlets described Friday at Sepang as an encouraging sign for a competitive race weekend. The available running data focused on long-run pace from the second free practice session.
According to the reported analysis, Max Verstappen set the strongest long-run benchmark in FP2 for the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. He did so on medium tyres, and after adjusting for differences in stint length and tyre compound, he came out ahead of the field.
George Russell was identified as Verstappen's nearest challenger at 0.19 seconds behind in the Mercedes, with Ferrari's Charles Leclerc 0.32 seconds back. One report also said there could be more to come from Mercedes as the weekend develops.
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