The Autodromo Hermanos Rodríguez welcomed F1 back to Mexico City with a day that showcased rookie talent and established dominance. From nine debutants gracing FP1 to Max Verstappen’s commanding FP2 performance, day one delivered fascinating insights into the championship battle at altitude. What unfolded during the opening practice sessions? Stay tuned with Supercars.com.GH to find out!
FP1
Charles Leclerc topped a historic FP1 session featuring nine rookie drivers, setting a 1:18.380 that put him just 0.107s clear of Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli in an unprecedented showcase of young talent. The Ferrari driver’s pace came as championship contenders Lando Norris and Max Verstappen watched from the pit wall, handing crucial track time advantage to Oscar Piastri.
Arvid Lindblad impressed most among the debutants by claiming sixth for Red Bull, finishing just six-tenths behind Leclerc at the wheel of Verstappen’s car. The 17-year-old Briton showcased his credentials for 2026 consideration alongside Paul Aron, who drove for Alpine as both youngsters eye potential championship graduations.
Nico Hulkenberg secured third for Kick Sauber, the only team not fielding a rookie driver, while Piastri claimed fourth to capitalize on his title rivals’ absence. The championship leader became the first driver to break the 1m 20s barrier, demonstrating McLaren’s strong form at the high-altitude venue.
Gabriel Bortoleto rounded out the top five for Kick Sauber, while other notable rookie performances included Pato O’Ward for McLaren and Frederik Vesti for Mercedes. Antonio Fuoco brought up the rear in the second Ferrari, finishing 2.4 seconds behind teammate Leclerc in the dust-clearing conditions.
FP2
Max Verstappen struck back emphatically by topping FP2 with a commanding 1:17.392, putting him 0.153s clear of Leclerc as Red Bull showcased their new floor and cooling package. The Dutchman’s dominance suggested the championship leader had found crucial pace at a circuit where altitude traditionally favors Red Bull.
Kimi Antonelli endured early dramas when he reported issues forcing him to “limp home,” though the Italian recovered brilliantly to claim third after the Mercedes team resolved his problems. His resilience highlighted the 18-year-old’s growing maturity ahead of his 2026 promotion.
Lando Norris could only manage fourth for McLaren, 0.251s behind Verstappen, while teammate Oscar Piastri struggled in 12th—nearly eight-tenths off the pace. The championship leader’s difficulties suggested a challenging weekend ahead as he looks to bounce back from recent struggles.
George Russell had a wide moment early on after missing FP1, while Alex Albon tapped the wall exiting Turn 16 as drivers explored the limits on soft tires. Verstappen later complained the medium compound felt “like driving on ice,” echoing struggles voiced by Russell about rear grip.
Can Verstappen maintain his Friday advantage heading into Saturday’s crucial qualifying? Join Supercars.com.GH tomorrow to find out!