2026 Spanish GP Qualifying: Antonelli Leads the Charge at New Madring Circuit

Qualifying for the 2026 Spanish Grand Prix is underway at the new Madring Circuit, and the first-ever pole position around the track is up for grabs. Kimi Antonelli arrives as the driver to beat after setting the fastest time in a chaotic FP3, which was heavily interrupted by red flags. The Italian's pace for Mercedes suggests the Silver Arrows are in strong form, but Ferrari and McLaren are also in the mix, setting up a tight battle for the front of the grid.

Why it matters:

The Madring Circuit is an unknown quantity for all teams, and qualifying will set the tone for the inaugural race. With Mercedes and Ferrari looking rapid on Friday, and McLaren's Oscar Piastri joining the fight in FP3, the pecking order is far from settled.

The details:

• Antonelli's momentum: The Mercedes driver topped FP3 despite limited running, showcasing strong one-lap pace.
• Crash worries: Lewis Hamilton and Oliver Bearman both crashed out of FP3, leaving their teams with a race against time to repair cars before qualifying.
• Piastri in the mix: McLaren's form appears stronger than expected, with Piastri getting himself into contention during the final practice session.

What's next:

The qualifying hour will reveal who adapts best to the new circuit. With limited data, early laps will be crucial, and any further incidents could dramatically alter the grid. The session promises to be a thrilling introduction to F1's newest venue.