In the final free practice session for the 2024 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix, Scuderia Ferrari Spanish driver Carlos Sainz delivered an impressive performance, securing third place at the Albert Park circuit in Melbourne with his fastest lap being set on medium tyres.
Nonetheless, he received a reprimand for executing a practice start in an incorrect location.
The rules permitted drivers to perform practice starts after the practice session had concluded and the chequered flag was waved. However, Carlos Sainz initiated his practice start before crossing the finish line.
Upon examining the matter, which included listening to Carlos Sainz’s explanation, analyzing positional data, team communications, and video evidence, the stewards concluded: “Car 55 conducted a practice start contrary to the directives provided in the Race Director’s Event Notes, which stipulate that a practice start may only be undertaken after the vehicle has passed the Line.”
“Car 55 had not crossed the line, and while the Stewards recognised that the situation ahead of him was confusing, consistent with prior decisions, they issue a Reprimand (Driving).”
In a nail-bitingly close final practice session at the Australian Grand Prix, Charles Leclerc narrowly surpassed Max Verstappen, setting the stage for an exciting qualifying round.
For the majority of the session, Carlos Sainz was in the lead until Verstappen set the fastest time towards the end. However, Charles Leclerc quickly overtook him, securing a Ferrari dominance in all three practice sessions.
Charles Leclerc finished a mere 0.020 seconds ahead of Verstappen, with Carlos Sainz trailing by an additional 0.057 seconds. Notably, Carlos Sainz’s top time was achieved on medium tyres, in contrast to his rivals on softs. Lewis Hamilton was hot on their heels, finishing less than a tenth of a second behind the Monegasque driver, and George Russell was not far off, claiming fifth position.
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