Austrian GP: Russell denies Antonelli FP3 sweep as Hamilton closes in

George Russell delivered a last-gasp flying lap to deny Kimi Antonelli a practice clean sweep and top FP3 at the Austrian Grand Prix, recording a 1:07.096 as Mercedes stamped its authority on proceedings at the Red Bull Ring. Lewis Hamilton remained the closest challenger in his Ferrari, finishing just a tenth behind, though a late off at Turn 3 triggered anti-stall and prompted a precautionary gearbox check ahead of qualifying.

Why it matters:

Mercedes has carried dominant form through the 2026 season, and Russell's late effort underlined that the Silver Arrows are the team to beat in Austria. With Hamilton lurking immediately behind and already a race winner for Ferrari this year, the stage is set for a genuine duel between the two constructors in qualifying. The slender margins suggest pole position could hinge on the slightest mistake.

The details:

• Russell's late strike: With time expiring in FP3, Russell bolted a 1:07.096 on soft tires to displace Antonelli, who had set the pace across Friday but could not improve on his final run.
• Hamilton's close call: The seven-time world champion ended the session just 0.1 seconds off Russell, but a late excursion at Turn 3 forced Ferrari to inspect the gearbox for potential damage.
• McLaren's muted pace: Despite early promise from Lando Norris, the Woking squad appeared to lack the ultimate single-lap speed to trouble the front two teams, reinforcing Norris' pre-weekend concerns.
• Red Bull's gremlins: Max Verstappen spent the session battling persistent radio interference, capping a disrupted Friday for the team and leaving them with setup work ahead of qualifying.
• Ferrari's mixed bag: After shining in Barcelona, the Scuderia looked slightly adrift. Charles Leclerc ran with a broken right mirror, while Carlos Sainz repeatedly struggled for grip at Turn 9.

What's next:

Qualifying is poised to be a nip-and-tuck affair between Mercedes and Ferrari, provided Hamilton's gearbox is given the all-clear. Antonelli will be desperate to reclaim the initiative after losing the FP3 bragging rights, while Verstappen and Red Bull must solve their communication and balance woes to avoid surrendering further ground in the championship fight.