NEWS
Mercedes strikes back in second Monza practice!
George Russell sets the fastest time in the second practice. A Ferrari driver is behind him.
George Russell (Mercedes) topped the second practice session in Monza.
The Briton clocked the fastest lap of 1:22.559 minutes in the second session on Friday, just ahead of Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc (+0.120 seconds) and championship leader Kimi Antonelli (+0.141) in the second Mercedes.
However, the Italian local hero will start Sunday's Grand Prix (3:00 PM CET/live on ServusTV, Sky) from the very back due to an illegal engine change in his Silver Arrow.
World Champion Lando Norris finished in fourth place (+0.384) ahead of Lewis Hamilton (+0.457) in the second Ferrari and McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri (+0.469).
Red Bull driver Max Verstappen, who sat out the first practice session for junior driver Ayumu Iwasa, finished ninth (+0.818). In the first session, Leclerc had set the fastest time, ensuring a perfect start for the Scuderia at their home race.
Antonelli more relaxed due to grid penalty
In the overall championship standings, Antonelli leads with a 59-point advantage over teammate Russell and Hamilton. However, this cushion is at risk, as the rising star will have to hope for a comeback charge in the race.
"In a way, it helps take the pressure off. Although, of course, I would much rather fight for pole position and start from the front. But somehow, it makes me feel a bit more relaxed for the weekend," said Antonelli.
Qualifying will take place on Saturday at 4:00 PM CET - in the LIVE ticker >>>
Formula 1, meanwhile, announced on Friday that the car presentations for 2027 will take place collectively as part of a three-day fan festival in Milan next February (18th to 20th).
