Welcome to the 2024 F3 Monaco weekend. The 2024 F3 Monaco Practice session proved eventful, contrary to the drivers’ hopes for a smooth start.
This 2024 F3 Monaco weekend features a change in the field. Matias Zagazeta underwent emergency surgery earlier this week. 19-year-old GB3 driver James Hedley has stepped in to replace him.
Green Light #1
The drivers kicked off with push laps. Fornaroli and Gabriele Minì set the first flying times, with the Prema Racing driver clocking the fastest at 1:27.400.
Rodin Motorsport’s Joesph Loake became the first to encounter trouble, finding the run-off area at Sainte Devote before rejoining the track.
Red Flag #1
The session’s first red flag occured shortly after Loake’s incident when Tasanapol Inthraphuvasak crashed into the barrier at Turn 1. Despite minimal damage, it was a disappointing start for the AIX Racing driver, and a set back for the other 20 drivers missing out on key track time.
Red Flag #2
The 2024 F3 Monaco weekend resumed briefly with just over 30 minutes remaining. However, another red flag followed when Rodin Motorsport rookie Callum Voisin crashed into the barrier at Turn 1.
Red Flag #3
As the session restarted, loud thunder signalled wet weather was ahead. Rain began falling as the drivers set out on track again. Continuing an eventful free practice, Meguetounif was caught out by the heavy downpour as he collided with the barrier at Turn 1, bringing another halt to the session.
Teams quickly began to bolt wet tyres onto their cars for improvement once the session resumed. With 12 minutes left, the drivers returned to the track, increasing their lap counts to familiarise themselves with the circuit.
Arvid Lindblad went straight on at Mirabeau. Luckily, he was able to avoid the barriers and re-joined the track to continue his practice session.
Chequered Flag
Drivers had 12 minutes of running in wet conditions. Further improvements were prevented due to the weather. While not ideal, this experience could prove beneficial for tomorrow’s Qualifying.
Qualifying will be split into two halves due to the short Monaco circuit layout. Group A will take to the track at 11:05. Group B take to the track at 11:29, weather and red flags permitted.
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