Antonelli tops FP2 at Spanish Grand Prix as Mercedes sets the pace in Madrid

Kimi Antonelli laid down an early marker at the Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid, topping FP2 at the Madring circuit with a 1:33.662 lap. The Mercedes driver, who leads the F1 2026 world championship, edged Ferrari's Charles Leclerc by 0.113s as the title favourites set the pace in round 14 of the season.

Lewis Hamilton made it a close fight at the front, slotting into third just 0.149s behind Antonelli. Racing Bulls' Arvid Lindblad impressed in fourth before crashing out late in the session, while George Russell completed the top five for Mercedes.

Why it matters:

With the championship battle intensifying, Mercedes' early pace at a brand-new circuit is a significant statement. Antonelli's consistency throughout 2026 has made him the man to beat, and a strong weekend in Madrid would further solidify his title credentials.

The details:

• Antonelli's 1:33.662 was the benchmark, 0.113s clear of Leclerc
• Hamilton was just 0.149s off the pace, keeping Ferrari firmly in the mix
• Lindblad's promising session ended early after a crash in the closing stages
• Russell, winless since Austria, finished 0.337s adrift in fifth
• Verstappen led Red Bull's charge in sixth, ahead of Piastri's McLaren
• Tsunoda, Ocon and Lawson rounded out the top 10

Beyond the top 10: Gasly (Alpine), Hulkenberg (Audi), Bortoleto (Audi), Bearman (Haas), Colapinto (Alpine), Sainz (Williams), Alonso (Aston Martin), Albon (Williams), Perez (Cadillac), Stroll (Aston Martin), Bottas (Cadillac) and Norris (McLaren, no time).

Between the lines:

Norris' session was a write-off. The reigning world champion failed to record a single lap after an enforced gearbox change, leaving him with minimal track time at a circuit new to the entire grid.

What's next:

Qualifying at the Madring is next on the schedule, with Mercedes and Ferrari expected to remain the teams to beat. Lindblad's crash adds an element of uncertainty, but the early signs point to a tight fight for pole.