EL3 in Budapest: Ferrari confirms, Mercedes shows up

The German sets a new track record at the Hungaroring with a timed lap of 1’16”170. Hag ahead Valtteri Bottas aboard the highest ranked Mercedes. The Finn is 59 thousandths behind but hit the safety barriers 15 minutes from the checkerboard while spinning at the chicane.

His compatriot Kimi Räikkönen finished 3rd, a pair of tenths behind his teammate's benchmark. Ferrari. Hamilton ranks 4th, 0,579s behind Vettel. The world championship leader also spun off at the chicane during a somewhat messy session.

At the forefront on Friday on the winding Magyar circuit, the Red Bull de Daniel Ricciardo et Max Verstappen occupy 5th and 6th positions, more than six tenths behind.  

Carlos Sainz is the fastest in the “B classification”, in reference to the struggles between the teams behind the Big Three (Mercedes-Ferrari-Red Bull). The Spanish of Renault, whose future is shaking up the transfer market this summer, comfortably precedes his teammate Nico Hulkenberg as well as the Haas de Romain Grosjean.

On a circuit that he particularly likes, Pierre Gasly completes the Top 10 with its Toro Rosso with a Honda engine and finished in front Kevin Magnussen (Haas) and his teammate Brendon Hartley.

After the news of the placement under judicial administration of Force India, Esteban Ocon and Sergio Pérez settle for 15th and 19th times.

Down on Friday, Mercedes seems to have regained momentum in terms of pace over one lap compared to Ferrari. If Red Bull manages to get involved in the fight, this bodes well for a nice show this afternoon in qualifying, a crucial session when we know the rare overtaking opportunities offered by the Hungaroring.

Live this battle for pole position with our live commentary from 15 p.m. on CARhebdo.fr.

CLASSIFICATION (END OF FP3)

A close-fought final practice session between Ferrari and Mercedes

Next up… QUALIFYING #HungarianGP #F1 pic.twitter.com/raR7Wk5PTx

— Formula 1 (@F1) July 28, 2018