McLaren and Mercedes emerged as top contenders after a tight Friday practice in Barcelona, signaling a potential shift in the pecking order. Lando Norris topped FP2 for McLaren, with Oscar Piastri close behind in third, just 0.057s off the fastest time. Both drivers reported improved car balance and pace, feeling the circuit’s characteristics, particularly the heat and wind, suited their package better than recent races. McLaren is optimistic about managing tyre degradation, a past strength.
Mercedes' George Russell had a solid day, placing first in FP1 and a narrow second in FP2, just nine thousandths behind Norris. Russell found the car consistent and felt confident heading into qualifying. Rookie Kimi Antonelli impressed in his FP2 outing for Mercedes, finishing fifth despite some balance challenges. Both teams acknowledge a tight competitive field including Ferrari and Red Bull. Qualifying promises to be a razor-thin affair, with Sunday's race pace likely decided by crucial tyre management.
Read the full story at formula1.com
