F1 photos GP Italy 2018 (Friday): Photos from free practice

A spoiled on Thursday Italy still had Formula 1 on a summer day that was exemplary. Everyone in the paddock talked about the great atmosphere at this historic place, looked forward to their pizza and enjoyed the rays of the sun that tickled their noses. Only one day later came the rude awakening: Autumn is here - or at least a foretaste of it. Dark clouds moved over the Royal Park of Monza, it poured like buckets, there was lightning and there was thunder.

Spray fountains on the track

In the paddock, the water masses flowed on At one point even the fire brigade had to move with pumps. In the pit lane, sandbags were used in order not to sink into the bathtub with the yellow rubber duck. No wonder most of them had retired to the comfortable motorhomes. The GP3 series, which was supposed to complete its training before Formula 1, was allowed to pack up again. Too much water on the track.

The premier class had a little more luck at 11 a.m. because the rain was less. The first test run went on schedule. First on rain tires, later on intermediates. The numerous fans in the stands were shown spectacular pictures because particularly large fountains of spray formed on the straights in Monza. The surprise in the morning: Sergio Perez secured the best time in the Force India VJM 11.

Formula 1 experienced a moment of shock in the afternoon. Marcus Ericsson turned left into the gang in the Sauber at the end of the start and finish straight and rolled over three times with a screw. The rubble was scattered everywhere. The sitting was suspended for 20 minutes. Ericsson was miraculously able to get out of the wreckage unharmed.

In our picture gallery we show you the best photos from Friday's training in Monza.