FP1: Norris sets the pace from Verstappen and Hamilton during first practice in Spain

Lando Norris continued his strong form, topping the opening practice session for the Spanish Grand Prix. The McLaren driver, fresh off his Monaco victory, set the fastest time of 1:13.718, ahead of Red Bull's Max Verstappen (+0.367s) and Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton (+0.378s) in warm, sunny Barcelona conditions. The session began with F2 driver Victor Martins making his F1 weekend debut in Alex Albon's Williams, as teams immediately hit the track to gather data under a new Technical Directive concerning front wing load tests. Pirelli brought the three hardest compounds, with drivers initially opting for the C1 hard tyres. Norris established an early lead, later improved by George Russell on medium C2 tyres. However, a switch to soft C3s saw Norris reclaim the top spot, outpacing Verstappen. Notable performances included Racing Bulls' Liam Lawson and Isack Hadjar, and Haas's Ollie Bearman, all making an impression in the top 10. While Fernando Alonso voiced concerns about his Aston Martin, Norris held on to P1. Leclerc, Piastri, Tsunoda, and Gasly completed the top 10, setting the stage for an intriguing weekend as teams prepare for FP2.