Grosjean fastest in 3rd practice for Hungarian GP

[July 27, 2013]  BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP) -- Lotus driver Romain Grosjean was fastest in the third and final practice session for the Hungarian Grand Prix ahead of qualifying later Saturday.

The Frenchman has found form again recently, finishing third at the German GP three weeks ago to end a streak in which he failed to place inside the top 15 for four Formula One races. Grosjean was third quickest in Friday's second practice run.

In searing heat on the Hungaroring track, Grosjean clocked a lap time of 1 minute, 20.730 seconds. That was .168 ahead of Ferrari driver Fernando Alonso and .322 in front of Sergio Perez of McLaren. Perez crashed into the barriers near the end but was unhurt.

Three-time F1 defending champion and current leader Sebastian Vettel of Red Bull was fourth.

[Associated Press; By JEROME PUGMIRE]

Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.