F1-EL2: Hamilton and Rosberg neck and neck

The Mercedes W06 Hybrid were once again at their best in the afternoon at the Monza Autodromo in Italy. Like this morning in EL1, Lewis Hamilton dominated his teammate Nico Rosberg, but the German reduced the gap on the World Champion.

Author of a best time established in 1’24″279, the Briton is only 21 thousandths ahead the old pilot Williams. Behind the master duo of this day, the third time is again to the credit of the Ferrari SF15-T Sebastian Vettel. The four-time world champion fails 759 thousandths behind Hamilton.

Sergio Pérez (Force India) took fourth place, and remained the last driver to finish less than a second behind Hamilton's Mercedes. Nico Hulkenberg (Force India) confirms that the VJM08s are in good shape in Italy by dominating Kimi Räikkönen (Ferrari).

Back in the seat of his Lotus E23 after giving up his place for the last time of the year to Jolyon Palmer in EL1, Romain Grosjean rises to 7th position in front of his teammate Pastor Maldonado. The Williams of Bottas and Massa complete the top 10, more than 1″3 behind the W06 Hybrid.

Significantly less success for single-seaters equipped with Power Units Renault since Daniel Ricciardo only finished 13th, not without experiencing a problem with his RB11 at the very start of the session. The Australian, like his teammate Daniil Kvyat and the McLaren de Fernando Alonso and Jenson Button were served with their penalties following the changes made to the Power Units.

Note that after Carlos Sainz in EL1, Max Verstappen (Toro Rosso) also made a mistake in the gravel trap at the Ascari chicane. The Dutch driver was subsequently able to return to the track.

The third practice session will take place tomorrow from 11 a.m. the qualifications scheduled from 14 p.m. and which will be followed live on our website.