Can Mercedes stay ahead of their rivals at the Madring?

Kimi Antonelli has set the pace during Friday practice at the Madrid circuit, demonstrating the same strong form that currently sees him leading the championship. Despite a red flag disrupting the session and limiting long-run data collection on the new track, the Mercedes driver quickly found his rhythm on the soft tyres. While the track is still evolving and surface grip is expected to increase throughout the weekend, Antonelli’s early performance positions him well. Given his consistent ability to work with Mercedes on overnight improvements, he heads into the remainder of the weekend in an excellent position to contend for the top spot.