Gabriele Minì Tops Rain-Hit F3 Free Practice Session In Monte Carlo

PREMA Racing’s Gabriele Minì set the fastest time in a rain-interrupted free practice session at Monte Carlo, clocking in at 1:27.400. The session faced multiple red flags due to incidents on the track, with overcast conditions turning to rain, which ultimately secured Minì’s early lead.

Early Incidents and Red Flags

The session began under threatening skies with rumbles of thunder, though the rain wasn’t heavy enough initially to warrant switching from dry tyres. Rodin Motorsport’s Joseph Loake was the first to experience the tricky conditions, finding the run-off area at Sainte Devote before rejoining the track. Shortly after, AIX Racing’s Tasanapol Inthraphuvasak crashed into the barriers at the same corner, causing the first red flag of the session.

Session Resumes Amid Changing Conditions

With 32 minutes left, the session resumed but was quickly halted again as Rodin’s Callum Voisin also went off at Turn 1, mirroring Inthraphuvasak’s earlier incident. As the skies grew darker, Minì continued to lead with his impressive lap time.

Rain Intensifies

As the rain began to fall more steadily, Trident’s Sami Meguetounif lost control under braking at Turn 1, sliding into the barriers and bringing out another red flag. This incident occurred just as the first flying laps were starting on the increasingly wet track.

Final Minutes on Wet Tyres

With 13 minutes remaining, the green light signaled the drivers to venture back out, now equipped with wet Pirelli tyres. However, the worsening rain conditions prevented any further improvements on lap times.

Qualifying Schedule

The qualifying session is scheduled to start at 11:05 on Friday, with Group A featuring even-numbered cars and Group B comprising the odd-numbered half of the grid, set to follow at 11:29 local time.

Provisional Classification from Practice Session

The session was marked by challenging weather conditions, but Gabriele Minì managed to secure the top spot, setting the stage for an exciting weekend of racing in Monte Carlo.