Fernando Alonso made waves on a wet and wild first day of practice for the Canadian Grand Prix, setting the fastest time under tricky conditions.
The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve became the stage for some truly thrilling action, as both of Friday’s practice sessions were marked by relentless rain. The first practice (FP1) was almost entirely drenched, while second practice (FP2) offered a brief window of dry conditions before the heavens opened once again.
Against this challenging backdrop, Alonso managed to squeeze out a phenomenal time of 1m 15.810s on soft tyres during the fleeting dry moment in FP2. This lap was enough to put him ahead of Mercedes' George Russell by just under half a second. An impressive feat, considering the unpredictable nature of the weather and the tough competition.
Setting the Pace
Joining Alonso on the podium of pace in the FP2 session was his Aston Martin teammate and local favourite, Lance Stroll, who secured the third fastest time. Notably absent from the top spots was Max Verstappen, who faced a myriad of issues during the rain-affected practice and couldn't showcase his usual dominance on the track.
Alonso's superior performance was no fluke. The Spaniard's experience and skill were on full display as he navigated the slippery conditions with finesse, using his seasoned understanding of the track and his car's capabilities to push boundaries. The onboard video of his fastest lap, available in the player above, offers an exhilarating glimpse into what it takes to master such treacherous conditions.
A Closer Look at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve
Named after the legendary Canadian driver, the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve is known for its challenging layout and the wall at the exit of the final chicane, famously dubbed ‘The Wall of Champions’. The combination of tight corners and high-speed straights makes it a favourite among drivers but also a venue where precision and control are critical, especially when the weather turns nasty.
Situated on the man-made island of Notre Dame in Montreal, this track has witnessed countless memorable moments in Formula 1 history. Alonso's recent feat undoubtedly adds another thrilling chapter to its storied legacy.
What's Next for the Canadian GP?
The rain-hit practice sessions are just the beginning of what promises to be an unpredictable and sensational Canadian Grand Prix weekend. The mixed weather forecasts suggest that teams will need to stay on their toes, with strategy and adaptability being key to success.
As we head into the remaining sessions and the race itself, all eyes will be on Alonso to see if he can maintain his momentum and challenge for a top spot in the Grand Prix. But with rivals like Verstappen surely seeking redemption after a difficult practice, the competition is only just heating up.
The Canadian Grand Prix remains one of the highlights of the Formula 1 calendar, merging rich history with modern-day drama and excitement. Alonso’s remarkable display in practice sets the stage for what could be a truly memorable race. For those who missed his stellar lap, the onboard video is an absolute must-watch – a testament to the skill and bravery required to excel in this sport.