Charles Leclerc set the fastest time in the first free practice session of the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, leading a Ferrari one-two ahead of Lewis Hamilton, with a difference of 0.173 seconds. The session was dominated by the Italian team, which demonstrated strong pace at their home circuit.
The first practice session was not considered very representative, as the Scuderia drivers did not fit the ultra-soft tires. This means the times were set without using the best available compound, which raises doubts about the true competitiveness of the car.
Nevertheless, both Ferrari drivers were three tenths faster than third-placed George Russell, who was driving a Mercedes fitted with ultra-soft tires. This suggests that Ferrari may have a significant advantage when all drivers resort to the softer compounds.
The Italian Grand Prix takes place at the legendary Monza circuit, often referred to as the "Temple of Speed", and this first free practice session marks the beginning of the competition weekend at the famous Italian circuit.
