xpb GP Russia 2015 (Training 2)
09.10.2015
D he Formula 1 didn't come in Sochi on Friday really in swing. After a defective cleaning vehicle limited the training operations in the morning, the rain spoiled the fun for the teams in the second session.
Only 81 laps in the second practice session in Sochi
On the track it showed a somewhat strange picture. While the 5.848-kilometer-long track was only slightly soaked from the second to the 13th corner, the cars pulled a thick cloud of spray behind them in the remaining part.
Under these conditions, the teams cut their programs properly. Better weather conditions have been announced in Sochi for the rest of the weekend. As a result, the learning effect was almost zero under the adverse conditions. Six drivers completely waived an exit. The remaining steering wheel artists brought it together to just 81 laps. Particularly tricky: On the smooth asphalt surface, they barely brought their rubbers up to temperature.
The relatively insignificant best time was secured by Felipe Massa in 2: 00.458 minutes in rain training. Team mate Valtteri Bottas, who finished third, needed just 0.230 seconds more for the long lap. After his fastest run, Williams had to call his Finnish driver back to the pits because of a puncture.
Williams shows himself improved on wet roads
Although the rainy seasons should be enjoyed with caution, the performance can indicate that Williams has improved on wet slopes. Sebastian Vettel (+0,201 seconds) pushed himself into the sandwich of the white-blue racers in the afternoon.
Behind them, Max Verstappen placed in the Toro Rosso ahead of Fernando Alonso in the McLaren-Honda. Shortly before the end of the session, the team from Woking reported a technical problem on the MP4-30. Local hero Daniil Kvyat lined up in sixth position. In addition, Carlos Sainz (7th) and Jenson Button (8th) set a lap time. Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton, on the other hand, did without a timed circuit. Rosberg was particularly noticeable through a few starting exercises. The World Cup runner-up probably wants to make sure that the breakdown at the Suzuka start doesn't repeat itself again two weeks ago. Be it on dry or wet roads.
In our picture gallery we show you the most beautiful pictures from Friday in Sochi.
