Antonelli Leads FP2 as Mercedes Bounce Back at Spa

Sports

Kimi Antonelli returned to the top of the timesheets in the second practice session for the Belgian Grand Prix, giving Mercedes a confidence boost after a competitive Friday at Spa Francorchamps.

The championship leader produced the fastest lap of the session with a time of 1:45.944, finishing 0.190 seconds ahead of McLaren’s Lando Norris, while Max Verstappen completed the top three for Red Bull.

After ending the opening practice session in sixth, Antonelli responded strongly in FP2 as Mercedes focused on qualifying simulations and long-run pace. The Italian looked comfortable throughout the session, showing impressive speed through Spa’s high-speed corners and maintaining consistent pace over longer stints.

Norris once again demonstrated McLaren’s competitiveness by finishing second, suggesting the Woking-based team will be firmly in contention throughout the weekend despite the Belgian circuit traditionally favouring Mercedes.

Verstappen continued Red Bull’s encouraging start to the weekend by securing third place after topping the opening practice session earlier in the day. The Dutchman appears far more competitive at one of his strongest circuits as Red Bull look to challenge Mercedes and Ferrari.

Lewis Hamilton maintained Ferrari’s strong form by finishing fourth, while Red Bull’s Isack Hadjar impressed with fifth place. Oscar Piastri completed the top six for McLaren after completing a shorter programme than several of his rivals.

With Mercedes, McLaren, Ferrari and Red Bull all showing competitive pace, the battle at the front appears closer than ever heading into qualifying. Teams also continued to evaluate tyre performance and race strategy as they prepare for what could be an unpredictable Belgian Grand Prix.

Antonelli’s return to the top of the timesheets reinforces Mercedes’ status as one of the favourites at Spa, but with Norris, Verstappen and Ferrari all within striking distance, the fight for pole position promises to be one of the closest of the 2026 season.