Start unlocking the secrets of F1 data today! Use “TELEMETRYGIFT” coupon at the checkout to get your first FREE TOKEN.
While FP1 didn’t deliver much in terms of outright pace or drama, it set the tone for the weekend in Barcelona. Teams focused on setup experimentation and tyre evaluations under relatively stable conditions. It was one of those sessions where lap times didn’t tell the whole story — but that’s exactly why FP2 mattered so much more.
Throttle Usage Comparison – Who’s Flat Out?
One of the standout data sets from FP2 comes from throttle usage telemetry. As shown in the chart below, Lewis Hamilton topped the throttle usage ranking with 78.55%, closely followed by HAD (78.48%) and ANT (77.58%). This generally reflects a more aggressive driving style or a car that’s well-balanced in high-speed corners — but it doesn’t always translate directly to lap time.
At the lower end of the scale, Lando Norris (73.84%) and Lance Stroll (74.33%) were among the most conservative, which could indicate traction limitations or a different run plan altogether.
FP2 Lap Times – Piastri Surprises
If there was any doubt about McLaren’s form heading into this weekend, Oscar Piastri erased it in style. He topped the FP2 timing sheets with a lap of 1:12.760, showing incredible pace in Sector 2. Following closely were Russell (+0.286s) and Verstappen (+0.31s) — the usual suspects — but seeing Norris on par with Max, and both Ferraris slightly further back, suggests we’re in for a tight qualifying battle.
Key Observations from the Data
- High Throttle ≠ Fastest Lap: Hamilton had the highest throttle use but only managed P11 in FP2. Meanwhile, Piastri, with a more conservative throttle profile, led the pack — highlighting setup refinement over raw aggression.
- Ferrari Playing the Long Game? Leclerc and Antonelli looked consistent but not dominant. Could this be a strategic Friday?
- Red Bull & Mercedes Well Placed: Verstappen and Russell are within striking range. Don’t be surprised if they step it up tomorrow.
What’s Next – Eyes on Qualifying
With such a tight field and telemetry showing varying strategies, Saturday’s qualifying promises fireworks. Track evolution will play a role, and Barcelona is notorious for punishing setup mistakes in Q2 and Q3.
Stay tuned to Turn One for full qualifying analysis, including telemetry overlays, driver comparisons, and strategy breakdowns.
Explore More at Turn One on t1f1.com
If you want to see every plot generated from this session follow us on Patreon.
Stay updated with the latest Formula 1 analyses, telemetry breakdowns, and exclusive insights at t1f1.com. Check out our shop for unique F1-themed items! You can also follow us on Instagram.
