Fernando Alonso set the pace in the steamy first practice for the Japanese Grand Prix when Mick Schumacher fell behind the marked flag.
Persistent rain throughout the morning caused the training session to be conducted in completely wet conditions at Suzuka, resulting in limited running for an hour-long training session.
Alonso emerged with the fastest time after he made the most of the weather to seal 1:42,248 on medium tyres before another downpour hit with 15 minutes remaining.
The two Ferrari drivers finished second and third, with Carlos Sainz 0.315 seconds ahead of Alonso and Charles Leclerc 0.386 seconds ahead of the Alpine driver. Esteban Ocon’s second Alpine was fourth-fastest ahead of Kevin Magnussen’s Haas and championship lead Max Verstappen.
Schumacher’s practice ended in a difficult position as he lost control of his Haas in the corner of Dunlop as he returned to the hole after starting practice late in the session.
A replay shows the rear tire of his car slamming as he exits the corner, sending him into a spin that ends in the hurdles.
The damage looks significant and comes at an unfortunate time for Schumacher, who is fighting for his Formula One future as Haas considers replacing him with Nico Hulkenberg next year.
Rain is forecast to continue throughout the day but is unlikely to return for the rest of the weekend. The second practice session was assessed as a 2023 Pirelli tire test and has been extended to 90 minutes, but the weather means drivers are unlikely to run next year’s slippery tire compounds.
