Norris Leads FP3 as Antonelli Nears Title in Mexico Qualifying

Lando Norris set the fastest time in FP3 for the Mexico City Grand Prix, pipping Kimi Antonelli as the Mercedes driver edges closer to a maiden F1 title. Charles Leclerc, who topped the first two practice sessions, could only manage third and will be eager to claim his first pole of the season. Qualifying at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez is now underway, with Antonelli needing just two points from Sunday's race to clinch the championship.

Why it matters:

Antonelli's near-certain title triumph would cap a remarkable rookie season, but Norris and Leclerc are determined to delay the celebrations. A strong qualifying result is vital for momentum and track position at the high-altitude circuit, where overtaking can be challenging.

The details:

• Norris's pace: The McLaren driver led FP3, continuing his resurgent form.
• Antonelli's consistency: Second in FP3, the Mercedes rookie needs only a top-10 finish on Sunday to seal the title. A ninth-place finish or better guarantees the championship regardless of Norris's result.
• Leclerc's challenge: After topping FP1 and FP2, the Ferrari driver could only manage third in FP3, suggesting the Scuderia may have lost some one-lap edge.
• Track conditions: The high-altitude circuit offers low grip, making qualifying unpredictable and track position crucial.

What's next:

Qualifying will set the grid for Sunday's 71-lap race, where tyre management and cooling will be critical. Antonelli aims for a strong start to control his destiny, while Norris and Leclerc push for pole to keep their slim hopes alive. Expect a tight battle as the field adapts to the evolving track.