Reporting note: this article draws on Sky Sports; PGLive provides the summary and editorial framing.
Verstappen Sets the Pace at Spa
Max Verstappen topped the timesheets in the opening practice session for the Belgian Grand Prix, clocking a lap 0.145s faster than Lewis Hamilton. Despite Red Bull’s winless streak in the 2026 season, the RB chassis appeared balanced across the high-speed sectors of Spa-Francorchamps. Isack Hadjar, despite facing a confirmed power unit penalty for Sunday, secured fourth, signaling a productive morning for the Red Bull garage.
Mercedes Struggles for Grip
Mercedes faced an uncharacteristic deficit in the first session. Championship leader Kimi Antonelli finished sixth, over half a second off the pace, while George Russell languished in eighth. The team is currently managing a precarious engine situation with Antonelli; engineers are investigating a potential failure in his Silverstone power unit. Any further replacement would trigger a 10-place grid penalty, mirroring the situation currently facing Lando Norris, who has already exceeded his control electronics allowance.
Hydraulic Failure for McLaren
Oscar Piastri finished fifth but ended the session with a mechanical failure. A late hydraulics issue forced the McLaren driver to limp back to the pit lane, highlighting the fragility of the car as the team attempts to integrate significant aerodynamic upgrades this weekend. Charles Leclerc rounded out the top three, keeping Ferrari within striking distance of the front runners.
What to Watch Next
- Practice Two: Friday at 4:00 PM.
- Qualifying: Saturday at 3:00 PM.
Ambient temperature 21°C, wind speed 8 km/h.
