UK: pre-qualifying 2023

In FP1 Verstappen was fastest ahead of Perez by over four-tenths, and the Mexican was less than a tenth ahead of Albon, which is a bit weird. Alonso, Leclerc, and Ocon followed, meaning five of the top six were from different teams. Then came Sainz, Norris, Stroll, and Piastri.

Second practice again had Verstappen in the lead but just two-hundredths ahead of Sainz. Albon was third (again), two-tenths off the Dutchman and half a tenth ahead of Perez. Sargeant being next does make me wonder if Williams has turned up with some sort of magic upgrade package. Then came Stroll and Hulkenberg, Gasly, Piastri, and Alonso.

 

As is often the case now I won’t be able to watch pay attention to third practice then bet. If you have a free bet then each way (qualifying) for Albon given his seeming pace and potential weather conditions taking out others/making last over the line more important is worth considering.

He’s 51 for fastest qualifier, which frankly seems a little long given two top 3 finishes in practice. I do expect him to finish lower than that, but still. 34 for topping FP3, which may be better value.

Things do look very tight among various teams.

Thundery showers are forecast for qualifying and may also occur during the race (though, as ever, I’d advocate checking the weather for the race just before betting to get the most up to date info).

Both qualifying and the race are at 3pm UK time.

 

Morris Dancer

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