After a week of absence, we are back in North America for the 2025 Canadian Grand Prix at the world-famous Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal. Who had the upper hand on Day 1? Join Supercars.com.GH as we explore!
FP1
Max Verstappen kicked off the Canadian Grand Prix weekend by topping the first practice session, setting a benchmark lap of 1:13.193. The session saw an immediate red flag caused by Charles Leclerc, who crashed into the barriers at Turn 4 after a lock-up, ending his session early.
Williams showed surprising pace, with Alex Albon finishing just 0.039 seconds behind Verstappen in second, and Carlos Sainz completing a strong showing for the team in third, 0.082 seconds off the pace.
McLaren has brought some upgrades this weekend, with Oscar Piastri sporting aero rakes to test new front wing elements. Lando Norris, however, seemed to struggle for grip at times, finishing seventh. Former Mercedes teammates George Russell and Lewis Hamilton secured fourth and fifth, respectively. The session saw several minor incidents as well, including spins for Franco Colapinto and Lewis Hamilton, and a close call between Albon and Gabriel Bortoleto. The majority of drivers opted for the C6 soft tyres, with only four going out on the C5 mediums.
FP2
George Russell finished Friday’s Canadian Grand Prix practice sessions on top, setting the fastest time in FP2. Mercedes showed strong form, with Russell leading teammate Kimi Antonelli, who finished third, hinting at a potential resurgence for the team. Lando Norris split the two Mercedes drivers, securing second place just 0.028 seconds behind Russell.
The session began with an early red flag after Lance Stroll, returning from injury, made contact with the barrier and damaged his suspension, forcing him to retire from the session. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc did not participate in FP2 due to chassis damage from his FP1 crash, leaving Lewis Hamilton to gather crucial data for the team.
The lack of rear grip continued from FP1, with many drivers struggling, including the McLaren pair, who repeatedly ran wide at the final chicane. Williams continued to impress, with Alex Albon securing a strong fourth place, notably setting his best time on medium tires, unlike many of the front-runners on softs. Fernando Alonso placed fifth for Aston Martin, followed by Oscar Piastri and Carlos Sainz. Hamilton, Max Verstappen, and Liam Lawson rounded out the top 10.
How will things pan out on Day 2? Keep in touch with Supercars.com.GH to find out!
