George Russell topped the timesheets in Friday’s second practice session for the Canadian Grand Prix, giving Mercedes a much-needed boost. He clocked a fastest lap of 1:12.123, edging out McLaren’s Lando Norris by just 0.028 seconds.
While Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, who led the way in the opening session, couldn’t replicate his earlier pace, Russell made the most of the conditions at a sunny Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. His strong performance was backed up by teammate and rookie Kimi Antonelli, who finished an impressive third.
Williams’ Alex Albon was fourth, followed by Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso and McLaren’s Oscar Piastri, the current championship leader. McLaren looked to be in testing mode, evaluating updates to their front wing and suspension.
Carlos Sainz took seventh for Williams, just ahead of Lewis Hamilton in the only Ferrari running in the session, as Charles Leclerc’s earlier crash kept him out of action.
Verstappen ended the session ninth, followed by Red Bull juniors Liam Lawson and Isack Hadjar.
It was a promising outing for Russell, especially at a track where he took pole position last year. This was his first time topping a practice session in the 2025 season—an encouraging sign for Mercedes heading into the weekend.
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