Three-time defending champion Max Verstappen of Red Bull has topped first practice for the Italian Grand Prix, in a session highlighted by the crash of teenager Kimi Antonelli.
All eyes were on Antonelli, who was making his F1 debut in Friday’s first practice session at his home race.
But his run lasted only 20 minutes as he lost his Mercedes at the Parabolica and made heavy contact with the barriers, causing a red flag.
Antonelli is reportedly the favourite to replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes next year as the seven-time world champion leaves the German team to join Ferrari.
The 18-year-old Antonelli was taking part in the first practice in place of George Russell. The Formula Two driver was unharmed and was able to leave the car by himself, but was taken to the medical centre for checks.
Verstappen is trying to return to the top of the podium after five races without a win and with Lando Norris of McLaren closing the gap in the drivers’ title race.
The Dutchman clocked 1 minute 21.676 seconds around the iconic Monza circuit, 0.228s ahead of home favourite Charles Leclerc of Ferrari. Norris was third.
Verstappen was beaten by Norris at his home Dutch GP last weekend by a large margin of almost 23 seconds, but still tops the drivers’ standings with a 70-point advantage over the McLaren man.
Second practice is later on Friday.
Source Agencies
