Abu Dhabi – EL3: Pérez the fastest, Mercedes in ambush

This is without a doubt the best way to prepare for qualifying. The 2^e championship place in his sights, Sergio Pérez wanted to stand out during this last free practice session of the year. After a first part with the medium tires, the Mexican put on the soft tires which allowed him to gradually gain power.

Thus, Sergio Pérez completed a 6-lap stint on soft tires at the top of the timesheet with a best time of 1'24"982. A mark which allowed him to be the only driver on the field under 1'25 on the Yas Marina track. At the end of the hour of taxiing, the pilot Red Bull beat his teammate Max Verstappen author of a best time in 1'25"134.

Recharged after their double in Brazil last Sunday, the Mercedes were once again competitive. A time in the first two ranks of the ranking, Lewis Hamilton and George Russell were finally overtaken by the Red Bulls, thus settling for the 3^e and 4^e times respectively. Note that the seven-time world champion was summoned to the stewards after overtaking under a red flag in these FP3. It remains to be seen whether he will be penalized or not but given the action, he should get away without the slightest sanction.

McLaren ahead Alpine

In the duel for 4th place among the Manufacturers, the advantage is McLaren at the end of this third and final practice session of the weekend. Rather comfortable on the soft rubber in Abu Dhabi, Lando Norris et Daniel Ricciardo took over Esteban Ocon et Fernando Alonso. The Woking drivers were indeed ranked 5^e and 8^e, being separated only by the Ferrari who seem to be struggling in this final round of the 2022 campaign. On the Blues side, their representatives were discreet with the 11^e and 12^e time.

Join us at 15:00 p.m. to follow the qualifications in live text with AUTOhebdo.

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