WATCH: Enzo Fittipaldi goes fastest in FP1 of Formula 2, Indian star Kush Maini finishes second

Enzo Fittipaldi made a strong statement in the first Formula 2 practice session at the Baku City Circuit, setting the fastest time for Van Amersfoort Racing. The Brazilian delivered an impressive lap of 1:58.244 in a session marked by changing track conditions and multiple red flags. India's Kush Maini showcased his talent by finishing a close second, solidifying his place as a rising star in the sport.

The practice session began with all drivers completing their initial installation laps, with Isack Hadjar setting the first competitive lap time of 2:04.063. However, as the track conditions improved, times quickly tumbled. Fittipaldi soon moved to the top of the timing sheets with a 2:02.689, but he was briefly dethroned by Victor Martins, who set a 2:00.384 lap for ART Grand Prix.

Here are some glimpses:

How to go fast around a street circuit with @enzofitti 👇



Inch perfect 😮‍💨#F2 #AzerbaijanGP pic.twitter.com/7kziBrCTNL

— Formula 2 (@Formula2) September 13, 2024

Fittipaldi was the first to break the two-minute barrier after 10 minutes, clocking a 1:59.550 and reclaiming P1. His lead, however, was short-lived, as Kush Maini powered through to take the top spot. Maini’s impressive performance left fans excited, but Fittipaldi responded immediately with his best effort of 1:58.244, firmly placing himself back at the top.

Multiple crashes hindered the FP1 session!

The session faced multiple interruptions, starting with a red flag due to Josep María Martí’s spin at Turn 6, just as light rain began to fall around the circuit. The practice resumed with 15 minutes left, but drivers were hesitant to push hard due to the tricky grip levels on the damp track.

Another red flag halted proceedings when Oliver Goethe crashed into the barriers at Turn 15 after a lock-up. This incident left the car in need of clearing and the barriers requiring repairs, ultimately bringing the session to an early conclusion. As a result, Fittipaldi remained at the top, followed by Maini in second. Kimi Antonelli, Zane Maloney, and Dennis Hauger completed the top five, wrapping up an eventful FP1 in Baku.