Overview

• Lando Norris topped both practice sessions, edging Fernando Alonso by 0.087s in FP2 after leading Oscar Piastri in FP1.
• Data and lap times positioned Aston Martin as McLaren’s nearest challenger, with Alonso splitting the McLarens in FP2 and the team showing credible race pace.
• Lance Stroll walked away after a heavy FP2 crash that triggered a red flag, in a day also marked by Antonelli’s early off, spins for Hamilton and Tsunoda, and Alex Albon beached in Turn 1.
• The FIA will examine contact in the fast lane between Oscar Piastri and George Russell during FP2, described by teams as minor but under formal review.
• Max Verstappen placed sixth in FP1 and fifth in FP2 and ended FP1 stuck in the gravel after practice starts, as Piastri’s nine‑point lead over Norris frames a tight title fight and strategy remains open between one and two stops.