French Grand Prix 2021: Where to Watch, Timings & F1 Schedule for Free Practice?

This weekend is the 2021 French Grand Prix at the Circuit Paul Ricard. As always, the race weekend is divided into two practice sessions on Friday, one practice and qualifying on Saturday. Finally, the Grand Prix closes the show on Sunday. On Friday, FP1 kicks off at 11:30 AM local time. Right on its heels comes the second session at 3:00 PM local time.

The French Grand Prix comes two weeks after the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, a race that Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton would like to forget. The Dutchman crashed out after a dramatic puncture that Pirelli is investigating. Meanwhile, Hamilton failed to capitalize on the opportunity, locked up, and finished out of the points.

Watch Story: From Cristiano Ronaldo to Shaquille O’Neal: When Other Athletes Mingled With F1 Stars 

What to expect from the French Grand Prix?

Admittedly, the Circuit Paul Ricard has a bit of a reputation that precedes it. The last two visits to the circuit have not exactly produced spectacular racing. However, the F1 community will be hoping that the third race at the track will be a lot different. It is also worth noting that this season in particular has been a lot more competitive.

To be precise, aside from the usual Mercedes and Red Bull dogfight, others are joining the party. The likes of Ferrari and McLaren are on a path of resurgence, while other teams are wildcards. This year, the midfield teams have inched a lot closer, so if something happened to the top 2 teams, the other teams went to capitalize.

For the moment, nobody knows how things will be at the Circuit Paul Ricard; however, Hamilton and Verstappen will be keen to redeem themselves. Hamilton lost his chance to retake his rightful spot at the top of the standings. Meanwhile, Verstappen lost his chance to extend his championship lead.

READ MORE: French Grand Prix 2021 Schedule: Where to Watch and Timings for This F1 Race at Paul Ricard?