Norris Sets the Pace in Mexico as Mercedes Close the Gap Ahead of Qualifying

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Lando Norris set the pace in the final practice session ahead of the 2025 Mexico City Grand Prix, clocking a best time of 1:16.633 at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez. The McLaren driver looked in control throughout the hour, delivering consistent pace as teams made their final preparations for qualifying.

Lewis Hamilton finished second, three-tenths behind Norris, as Mercedes showed strong single-lap pace. George Russell followed closely in third, completing a solid session for the Silver Arrows, who appeared confident with their car balance in the tricky high-altitude conditions.

Championship leader Oscar Piastri ended the session in fifth place, nearly six-tenths adrift of his McLaren teammate. The Australian faced traffic and struggled to get clean laps in, while Max Verstappen finished sixth after reporting ongoing grip issues and instability under braking. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc came seventh, followed by Kimi Antonelli in eighth, who continued to impress with another composed performance.

The session was largely clean with no major incidents, though several drivers ran wide at Turn 12 as they battled the slippery surface. Track temperatures continued to rise through the session, forcing teams to carefully manage tyre wear and overheating.

Norris’s performance underlines McLaren’s growing strength as they continue their late-season push in both championship battles. With Mercedes close behind, the fight for pole position looks set to be fiercely competitive.

Qualifying will take place later tonight, starting at 2:30 AM Maldives time, promising an intense showdown under the lights of Mexico City as the title race edges closer to its climax.